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Effects of Psychotherapy for Depression in Children and Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis

DOI:10.1037/0033-2909.132.1.132
Authors:
John Weisz at Harvard University
John Weisz
Cari Mccarty at Seattle Children’s Research Institute
Cari Mccarty
Sylvia M Valeri
Sylvia M Valeri
Sylvia M Valeri
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Abstract

Serious sequelae of youth depression, plus recent concerns over medication safety, prompt growing interest in the effects of youth psychotherapy. In previous meta-analyses, effect sizes (ESs) have averaged .99, well above conventional standards for a large effect and well above mean ES for other conditions. The authors applied rigorous analytic methods to the largest study sample to date and found a mean ES of .34, not superior but significantly inferior to mean ES for other conditions. Cognitive treatments (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy) fared no better than noncognitive approaches. Effects showed both generality (anxiety was reduced) and specificity (externalizing problems were not), plus short- but not long-term holding power. Youth depression treatments appear to produce effects that are significant but modest in their strength, breadth, and durability.
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