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Implementing METRA for Improved Outcomes in Afghan Adolescents

Implementing METRA for Improved Outcomes in Afghan Adolescents

Introduction

In recent years, the need for effective psychological interventions in humanitarian contexts has become increasingly evident. The pilot randomised controlled trial titled "Examining MEmory Training for Recovery-Adolescent among Afghan adolescent boys: a pilot randomised controlled trial" sheds light on the potential of MEmory Training for Recovery-Adolescent (METRA) in addressing psychological distress among Afghan adolescent boys. This blog explores how practitioners can leverage the findings of this study to enhance their therapeutic approaches and improve outcomes for adolescents in similar contexts.

Understanding METRA

METRA is a low-intensity, evidence-based training program designed to target two key memory disruptions associated with PTSD: difficulties in recalling specific autobiographical memories and overgeneral memory retrieval. These disruptions are linked to ongoing psychological difficulties, including rumination, avoidance, and impaired executive functioning. METRA comprises two modules:

Key Findings from the Study

The study conducted in Kabul, Afghanistan, involved 58 boys aged 14-19 years who had experienced a terrorist attack. Participants were randomly assigned to either the METRA group or a control group receiving study skills sessions. The results were promising:

Implications for Practitioners

The findings of this study offer valuable insights for practitioners working with adolescents in humanitarian contexts. Here are some key takeaways:

Encouraging Further Research

While the study provides promising results, further research is warranted to explore METRA's applicability in diverse contexts and populations. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of evidence by conducting studies that assess METRA's effectiveness in different cultural and humanitarian settings.

Conclusion

METRA offers a promising approach to addressing psychological distress among adolescents in humanitarian contexts. By implementing the findings of this study, practitioners can enhance their therapeutic interventions and contribute to improved outcomes for children in need. To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Examining MEmory Training for Recovery-Adolescent among Afghan adolescent boys: a pilot randomised controlled trial.


Citation: Ahmadi, S. J., Musavi, Z., Ahmadi, S., Masha, S., Muradi, N., Samim, N. U., Sarwary, S. A., Sarwary, S. A. A., Shahinzada, S., McAvoy, D., Earnest, A., & Jobson, L. (2023). Examining MEmory Training for Recovery-Adolescent among Afghan adolescent boys: A pilot randomised controlled trial. European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 14(2), 2251780. https://doi.org/10.1080/20008066.2023.2251780
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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