Comparative Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness Therapies in Reducing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Interpersonal Violence Survivors

Interpersonal/domestic violence is a major public health concern that is associated with a high prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other adverse mental health outcomes. Although Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT) have each demonstrated effectiveness in reducing PTSD symptoms, few randomized controlled trials have directly compared their relative efficacy among survivors of interpersonal violence, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. This study addresses this evidence gap by evaluating and comparing CBT and MBT using a randomized controlled trial design.

This is a parallel-group randomized controlled trial with three study arms: (1) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), (2) Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT), and (3) psychoeducation as an active control. Approximately 60 adult survivors of interpersonal/domestic violence who meet DSM-5 criteria for PTSD following screening and diagnostic assessment will be randomly assigned in equal numbers to one of the three intervention groups. Participants will complete baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up assessments.

The primary objective is to compare the effectiveness of CBT, MBT, and psychoeducation in reducing PTSD symptom severity. Secondary objectives include evaluating changes in emotion regulation, mindfulness, perceived stress, and other related psychological outcomes following the interventions. The study hypothesizes that both CBT and MBT will produce greater reductions in PTSD symptoms than psychoeducation, while also examining whether one active intervention demonstrates superior effectiveness for specific PTSD symptom domains and psychological outcomes.

The findings will contribute to the evidence base for trauma-informed psychological interventions and may inform clinical practice by identifying effective, culturally relevant treatment approaches for survivors of interpersonal/domestic violence.

Inclusion criteria

Female adults aged 18 years or older. History of interpersonal or domestic violence. Meets DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), confirmed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5).

Meets the eligibility threshold for PTSD symptoms on the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5).

Able and willing to provide written informed consent. Willing to participate in all intervention sessions and study assessments.

Exclusion criteria

Current psychotic disorder or severe cognitive impairment. Active suicidal ideation or psychiatric emergency requiring immediate treatment.

Current substance use disorder that would interfere with participation. Currently receiving another structured trauma-focused psychological intervention.

Medical or psychiatric conditions that would prevent safe participation or completion of the study.

Unable to provide informed consent or comply with study procedures.