Changing maladaptive trauma-related cognitions and emotional activation during trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy: Thematic content and relationships with posttraumatic stress symptoms

Maladaptive trauma-related cognitions, particularly related to trust and esteem, were common and associated with higher levels of PTSS at posttreatment. Low emotional engagement during trauma processing may potentiate the negative effects of maladaptive cognitions on PTSS. Results suggest both emotional processing and cognitive change are important treatment pathways for youth with PTSS.