Emotional psychological intervention in the treatment of post-traumatic stress due to sexual abuse: a conceptual and theoretical review based on evidence from 2020–2025

Abstract

This article offers a theoretical and conceptual review of emotional psychological intervention as an approach to address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among survivors of sexual violence. Recent evidence from 2020 to 2025 was analyzed using major scientific databases, including Scopus, Scielo, and Web of Science. The review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and applied inclusion criteria for intervention studies published in Spanish and English that focused on trauma-based therapies. Findings highlight Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as the most effective approaches, as both significantly reduce post-traumatic symptoms while enhancing emotional and psychological well-being. The literature consistently suggests that emotional psychological intervention, viewed through a qualitative and theoretical-conceptual lens, is an effective strategy for restoring neurocognitive, emotional, and social balance in affected individuals. Persistent challenges include ensuring treatment sustainability, promoting cultural adaptation of therapeutic models, and developing locally grounded frameworks that reflect Latin American contexts.