July 15, 2025Open Access

Effectiveness of Psychosocial Interventions for Youth With Mild Intellectual Disabilities or Borderline Intellectual Functioning and Externalising Problems: A Multilevel Meta‐Analysis

EKEva KühlUtrecht University IKIna M. KoningVrije Universiteit Amsterdam MDMaja DekovićHAN University of Applied Sciences

Key Points

Main finding indicates psychosocial interventions significantly reduce externalising problems in youth with mild intellectual disabilities.
The analysis included seven studies and revealed controlled trial effect sizes of g = 0.49, showcasing positive results.
A multilevel modelling approach was used to assess a total of 2221 studies, ensuring robust data analysis.
This research supports the need for targeted interventions for youth with mild intellectual disabilities, promoting better outcomes for this group.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives This meta‐analysis examined the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for youth with mild intellectual disabilities or borderline intellectual functioning (MID‐BIF) and externalising problems. Methods We assessed 2221 studies for eligibility and included seven studies containing 14 effect sizes. We used a multilevel modelling approach to analyse the data and calculated two different types of effect sizes: one for controlled trials and one for intervention pre‐test to post‐test effects (across all studies). Results Both controlled trial effect sizes ( g = 0.49) and pre‐test to post‐test effect sizes were significant ( g = 0.53). We were unable to detect heterogeneity of effects because of the small number of eligible studies. The risk of bias was generally high. Discussion Results suggest that psychosocial interventions decrease externalising problems among youth with MID‐BIF. Effect sizes appear similar to those for youth without MID‐BIF. We discuss recommendations for how the field can move forward.

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