The Effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Reducing Self-Directed Violence and Suicidality in Usual Care Settings: A Meta-Analysis.
Colleen A Maxwell, Katherine E Holland, Lauren Young et al.
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In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in reducing self-directed violence (SDV), crisis service use (CSU), and suicidal ideation (SI) in usual care settings. Analyzing 83 studies, the findings indicated a large reduction in SDV and medium reductions in CSU and SI in uncontrolled studies, while controlled studies showed a significant effect only for SDV.
Key findings
- DBT was associated with a large reduction in self-directed violence in uncontrolled studies.
- Medium reductions in crisis service use and suicidal ideation were observed in uncontrolled studies.
- No significant differences were found between usual care and non-usual care settings.
- Positive associations were noted between therapist training and SDV reduction.
Why it matters
Understanding the effectiveness of DBT in usual care settings is crucial for clinicians aiming to implement evidence-based interventions for patients at risk of self-directed violence and suicidality, particularly in resource-limited environments.
What to keep in mind
Substantial heterogeneity across models and evidence of publication bias were noted, which may affect the reliability of the findings.