Imagery Interventions and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Psychological Complaints Related to Bullying: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Meng Liang, Gerly Tamm, Olivia De Laere et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed individual cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and imagery interventions for bullying victims, examining internalizing symptoms, self-perception and coping. Across 23 studies, unadjusted pre–post analyses found reduced internalizing symptoms (k = 21, g = 0.72), but after adjustment for publication bias the effect was smaller and no longer statistically significant (g = 0.26). Adjusted improvement in self-perception and coping was g = 0.98. Internalizing symptom improvements at follow-up remained significant after adjustment (g = 0.37). The authors note substantial heterogeneity and methodological limitations.
Key findings
- Unadjusted pre–post internalizing symptoms decreased (k = 21, g = 0.72); after publication-bias adjustment, the effect was g = 0.26 and no longer statistically significant.
- At follow-up, the adjusted internalizing symptom effect was g = 0.37 and remained significant.
- After publication-bias adjustment, the effect on self-perception and coping was g = 0.98.
- Heterogeneity was substantial across outcomes (I 2 = 68%-98%).
Why it matters
The findings suggest that CBT and imagery interventions may help address psychological difficulties following bullying, but estimated benefits depend on outcome and adjustment for publication bias. The contrast between internalizing symptoms and self-perception or coping underscores the need to assess outcomes separately. High heterogeneity and methodological limitations mean pooled estimates should be interpreted cautiously.
What to keep in mind
The review reports substantial heterogeneity, methodological limitations and publication bias; the adjusted pre–post internalizing effect was no longer statistically significant.