A Quasi-Experimental Investigation of a Group Intervention for Adult Survivors of Polyvictimization and Complex Trauma

Abstract

ABSTRACT This pilot study investigated the efficacy of a manualized group treatment for adult survivors of polyvictimization and complex trauma (N = 116). Participants were assessed at baseline (waitlist), pre-intervention, and post-intervention. Scores statistically significantly improved on measures of symptom distress (Outcome Questionnaire-45 and Trauma Symptom Checklist-40) following the group intervention. Individual client scores were analyzed for pre/post treatment differences and indicated that 41% of the sample made reliable gains on the OQ-45. Significant gender differences were noted with females’ scores indicating a much stronger improvement during treatment. Implications for group counseling practice and future research are delineated.