Solution-Focused Brief Therapy in Korean Schools: A Meta-Analysis

Purpose: The use of solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) has expanded rapidly in Korean school settings, yet few meta-analysis have been conducted. Method: Following Cochrane guidelines, this meta-analysis synthesized experimental studies conducted in Korea from 1995 to 2024. Both peer-reviewed journal articles and theses/dissertations were included. A three-level random effects model was used. Results: Forty-six studies (152 effect sizes) were analyzed. Most interventions were group therapies (95%), incorporated three core SFBT categories, averaging 10 sessions and 12.46 techniques. The overall effect size was large ( g = 0.9), with significant improvements observed across behavioral, academic, social, and psychological outcomes. Study design and student age were significant moderators with stronger effects that were shown in randomized studies and among middle school students. Discussion: Findings support the effectiveness of SFBT in Korean schools. Future research directions and practical applications are discussed to enhance the evidence base and SFBT implementations in Korean schools (PROSPERO: CRD42024603637).