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The effectiveness of dialectical behavioral therapy on psychological distress in children and adolescents with self-harm and suicidal thoughts: a systematic review
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Mahtab Shah Hosseini *1    , Roghayeh Roshani2 , Sahar Taghavi Larmaei3 , Robabeh Rostami Janaghard4 , Zahra Entezari5 |
1- Garmsar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Garmsar, Iran
2- Lahijan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Lahijan, Iran
3- Behshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Behshahr, Iran
4- Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran
5- Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran |
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Abstract: (81 Views) |
Background and Purpose: High-risk behaviors such as suicidal ideation and self-harm in children and adolescents are a serious and persistent threat to mental health. Identifying and implementing effective interventions to reduce these behaviors is critically important. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in reducing psychological distress among youth experiencing self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
Method: From March 2008 to December 2024, a comprehensive search using keywords including suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety, distress, DBT, children, and psychological distress was conducted across major English-language databases—Google Scholar, PubMed, ProQuest, Embase, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Out of 804 initially identified articles, 23 studies met the inclusion criteria and underwent detailed quality assessment based on PRISMA guidelines.
Results: DBT was found to effectively reduce depression, anxiety, distress, and self-harming behaviors in adolescents, while enhancing mental health and emotion regulation abilities. Over 50% of participants in most studies reported significant symptom improvement following the intervention. Long-term follow-ups, extending up to three years, confirmed the durability of these therapeutic effects. Nonetheless, impulsivity and substance use were linked to higher treatment dropout rates.
Conclusion: DBT demonstrates robust efficacy in reducing high-risk behaviors and enhancing mental well-being among adolescents. Despite challenges such as impulsivity and substance use, DBT offers sustained benefits and plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for children and adolescents. |
Article number: 5 |
| Keywords: Dialectical behavior therapy, psychological distress, suicidal ideation, self-harm, adolescents |
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Full-Text [PDF 1173 kb]
(29 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2025/05/7 | Accepted: 2025/07/29 | Published: 2025/08/16
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