ABSTRACT
Background
Despite the high prevalence of posttraumatic symptoms in early childhood, there remain significant gaps in clearly defined or widely accepted treatments specifically adapted for young children. This shortcoming highlights the urgent need for developmentally sensitive, evidence-based psychological interventions targeting children who have experienced trauma during early childhood.
Objective
This study aimed to develop a Trauma-Focused Interaction module integrated into Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (TFI-PCIT) and to preliminarily evaluate its effectiveness in reducing trauma-related symptoms and behavioural difficulties in traumatized children aged 2–8 years, as well as its impact on parental stress and burnout.
Method
A fully integrated mixed-methods randomized controlled design was employed. A total of 19 parent–child dyads were assigned through stratified block randomization to an intervention group (n = 9) or control group (n = 10). The intervention group received the TFI-PCIT module, while the control group received no intervention during the study period. Between-group differences were analysed using linear mixed models, and within-group changes were examined with independent samples t-tests. Postintervention qualitative interviews were conducted to deepen interpretation of outcomes.
Results
Compared to controls, children who received TFI-PCIT demonstrated statistically significant reductions in trauma symptoms and behavioural problems. Parents in the intervention group showed significant decreases in parenting stress and burnout. Qualitative findings reinforced quantitative results, indicating improved emotional regulation and strengthened parent–child interactions.
Conclusion
These findings provide preliminary evidence that TFI-PCIT may be a promising, developmentally sensitive intervention for young traumatized children and their caregivers.