۱.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
feminist family therapy women’s advocacy social change Gender equality Empowerment social justice Cultural Diversity
In our special issue dedicated to Women Studies, I explore various dimensions of women's experiences and contributions across multiple domains. One of the most transformative areas where women have made a significant impact is in the field of family therapy. This article explores "Women’s Advocacy for Social Change through Family Therapy" as a prime example of how feminist principles can drive both individual empowerment and broader societal transformation. The intersection of feminism and family therapy has made significant strides in advocating for women’s rights and promoting social change. By addressing gender inequality, empowering women, and fostering social justice, feminist-informed family therapy has become a powerful tool for transformation. As we celebrate the contributions of women in this field, it is crucial to continue supporting and advancing feminist principles in family therapy practice, research, and training. Through collective efforts and continued advocacy, feminist family therapy stands as a powerful force for social change.
۲.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Forgiveness therapy Psychological distress psychological flexibility
Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of forgiveness therapy on psychological distress and psychological flexibility in women with marital conflicts. Methods: The research method was quasi-experimental, with a pre-test-post-test design and a control group. The statistical population included all women with marital conflicts who referred to health centers in District 3 of Tehran in 2022. The sample consisted of 30 women who scored lower in psychological flexibility and distress tolerance. They were selected through non-random voluntary sampling and were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Data were collected using the Distress Tolerance Scale by Simons and Gaher (2005) and the Psychological Flexibility Questionnaire by Dennis and Vander Wal (2010) in both pre-test and post-test stages. The session content was prepared according to the forgiveness therapy model by Enright and Fitzgibbons (2015). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and covariance analysis. Findings: The results of the covariance analysis indicated that the mean scores of psychological distress and psychological flexibility and their components in the experimental group significantly decreased compared to the control group (P = 0.05). Conclusion: Therefore, forgiveness therapy was effective in reducing psychological distress and enhancing psychological flexibility in women with marital conflicts.
۳.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Sexual separation Sexual Satisfaction Marital satisfaction sexual divorce
Objective: Proper sexual functioning is among the factors affecting marital satisfaction. A satisfactory sexual relationship plays a crucial role in individuals' sexual satisfaction, increased life satisfaction, and, consequently, family stability. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of women dealing with sexual separation. Methods: To this end, a qualitative research approach was employed using a descriptive phenomenological method. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with thirteen married women who reported having experienced sexual separation for more than a year and were living with their husbands at the time of the interview. Data analysis was conducted using Colaizzi's method. Findings: Ultimately, two main themes emerged: the nature of sexual separation and the reasons for sexual separation. The nature of sexual separation was divided into two sub-themes: lackluster relationship and wrong path. The reasons for sexual separation were coded into six sub-themes: personal injuries, emotional divorce, emotional wounds, beyond tolerance, unilateral pleasures, and backgrounds. Conclusion: According to the research findings, it can be inferred that sexual separation has different culturally dependent meanings. However, what stands out more prominently in the categories derived from this study is the reduction in frequency and duration of sexual relations and the lack of sexual desire and enthusiasm towards the spouse. Additionally, the factors causing sexual separation are an intertwined set of various reasons, with the most influential being emotional wounds and emotional divorce. The findings of this study indicate that some cases of sexual separation lead to sexual divorce.
۴.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Resilience Marital conflict Cognitive emotion regulation strategies Marital satisfaction
Objective: The objective of the present study was to predict marital satisfaction in married women based on cognitive emotion regulation strategies with the mediating role of resilience. Methods: This descriptive-correlational study employed a structural equation modeling approach. The statistical population included all married women experiencing marital conflict who visited clinics and counseling centers in District 5 of Tehran in 2021. From this population, 250 women were selected using a non-random, convenience sampling method. Data were collected using the Sanaei Marital Conflict Questionnaire (1998), the ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (1981), the Garnefski and Kraaij Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (2006), and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (2003). The data were analyzed using correlation tests and structural equation modeling. Findings: The results indicated a positive and significant relationship between cognitive emotion regulation strategies and resilience with marital satisfaction (P < 0.01). The findings supported the mediating role of resilience in the relationship between cognitive emotion regulation strategies and marital satisfaction in married women experiencing marital conflict (P < 0.01). Additionally, the modified model showed a good fit. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that resilience and cognitive emotion regulation strategies play an important role in marital satisfaction. It is essential to consider these critical variables in counseling programs for women experiencing marital conflict.
۵.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Paradox Timetable Cure Matrix Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Emotion-focused therapy Differentiation emotional self-regulation Marital conflict Women's Mental Health
Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Paradox Timetable Cure (PTC), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Matrix (ACTM), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) on differentiation and emotional self-regulation in women experiencing marital conflicts. Methods: The research employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up stages. The study sample consisted of 60 women with marital conflicts, selected through purposive sampling from an initial group of 154. The participants were randomly assigned to four groups: PTC, MACT, EFT, and a control group, each containing 15 members. The intervention included ten 90-minute sessions for each therapy group, while the control group received no treatment. Data were collected using the Differentiation of Self Inventory and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. Repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests were used for data analysis. Findings: The results indicated significant improvements in differentiation and emotional self-regulation across all three therapeutic approaches compared to the control group. ACTM and EFT were found to be slightly more effective than PTC in enhancing differentiation and emotional self-regulation (MACT and EFT p = .000, PTC p = .004 in differentiation; ACTM and EFT p = .000, PTC p = .001 in emotional self-regulation). Conclusion: All three therapeutic approaches—PTC, MACT, and EFT—were effective in improving differentiation and emotional self-regulation in women with marital conflicts. However, ACTM and EFT demonstrated marginally higher effectiveness compared to PTC. These findings suggest the utility of these therapies in clinical settings for addressing marital conflicts.
۶.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Schema therapy Psychological Capital Marital Infidelity
Objective: The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and schema therapy on psychological capital in women affected by marital infidelity. Methods: This research was a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design with a control group. The statistical population included all women dealing with the issue of marital infidelity of their spouses who referred to counseling centers in Tehran in 2022 and expressed their readiness to participate in the treatment program in response to the researcher's call. From this population, 45 subjects were selected using purposive sampling and randomly assigned to three equal groups of 15 (two experimental groups and one control group). The Psychological Capital Questionnaire by Luthans et al. (2007) was used to collect data. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software and multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) tests. Findings: The results indicated that both schema therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy interventions produced a significant difference in psychological capital in women affected by marital infidelity at the post-test and follow-up stages compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that cognitive-behavioral therapy had a greater impact on psychological capital in women affected by marital infidelity compared to schema therapy.
۷.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
quality of life Resilience Perceived stress Rheumatoid Arthritis
Objective: Musculoskeletal diseases are among the most common and costly illnesses across all age groups and various communities, leading to disability, incapacity, early retirement, and job loss. The present study aimed to develop a structural model of quality of life based on resilience with the mediation of perceived stress in women with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: The research method was descriptive-survey with a structural equation modeling design. The statistical population included women with rheumatoid arthritis in the city of Isfahan. The women with rheumatoid arthritis referred to medical centers in Isfahan had at least one year of disease history. Data were collected using the Varni-Kazisnki and Keller Quality of Life Questionnaire (1996), the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Antonovsky’s Sense of Coherence Questionnaire (1993), Cohen, Kamarck, and Mermelstein’s Perceived Stress Questionnaire (1983), and the Gratz and Roemer Emotion Regulation Difficulty Scale (2004). Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling and Amos26 software. Findings: The results showed that the direct effect of resilience on the quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis was significant (β = 0.25; P < 0.01). The indirect effect of resilience through the mediation of perceived stress on the quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis was significant (β = 0.16; P < 0.01). Additionally, the total effect of resilience through the mediation of perceived stress on quality of life was significant (β = 0.41; P < 0.01). Conclusion: It can be concluded that the structural model of quality of life based on resilience with the mediation of perceived stress was well-fitted, and perceived stress played a mediating role in the relationship between quality of life and resilience in women with rheumatoid arthritis.
۸.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
ambiguity tolerance Positive Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Mindfulness Female Heads of Households compassion therapy
Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of mindfulness-based compassion therapy and positive cognitive-behavioral therapy on ambiguity tolerance in female heads of households in Shahrekord. Methods: The research design was a quasi-experimental one, employing a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up with a control group. The statistical population included female heads of households in Shahrekord. Sixty participants were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to three groups (20 participants per group). The experimental groups underwent 8 sessions of mindfulness-based compassion therapy and positive cognitive-behavioral therapy, each lasting 120 minutes. To determine the effectiveness of the interventions, the McLain Ambiguity Tolerance Questionnaire (1993) was used, and the data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance. Findings: The findings showed that the effectiveness of mindfulness-based compassion therapy and positive cognitive-behavioral therapy compared to the control group on ambiguity tolerance in the post-test were (0.691) and (0.560), and in the follow-up were (0.755) and (0.632), respectively. Additionally, the results indicated that mindfulness-based compassion therapy was more effective than positive cognitive-behavioral therapy. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, mindfulness-based compassion therapy can be used as a more sustainable and effective intervention than positive cognitive-behavioral therapy to increase ambiguity tolerance in female heads of households.
۹.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
pregnancy stress coping schemas interpersonal sensitivity Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on pregnancy concerns, stress coping schemas, and interpersonal sensitivity in pregnant women with pregnancy anxiety. Methods: The research method was quasi-experimental, utilizing a pre-test, post-test design with a control group and a two-month follow-up phase. The statistical population consisted of all pregnant women with pregnancy anxiety at Shaheed Beheshti Women's Hospital in the city of Nowshahr, who scored one standard deviation above the mean and were willing to participate in the therapy sessions. A purposive sampling method was used to calculate a sample size of 75 participants (at least 25 per group). These 75 participants were then randomly assigned to two groups of 25 each (25 in the ACT experimental group and 25 in the control group). The Parker Interpersonal Sensitivity Questionnaire (1989), Wong and colleagues’ Stress Coping Schemas (2006), and Alderdice and Lynn’s Pregnancy Concerns Questionnaire (2011) were distributed among them. As mentioned, after collecting the data from the initial sample, the data were entered into SPSS software version 26. Findings: The results showed that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy significantly reduced pregnancy concerns (F=68.93, P<0.001), interpersonal sensitivity (F=39.73, P<0.001), and increased stress coping schemas (F=265.90, P<0.001) in pregnant women with pregnancy anxiety. Conclusion: It can be concluded that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is effective on the dimensions of stress coping schemas in the subjects.
۱۰.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Sexual cognitive behavioral therapy sexual awareness Psychological Functioning married women
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of sexual cognitive behavioral therapy on sexual awareness, psychological functioning, and self-control in married women. Method: The research method was a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design with a control group. The study population included all married female students at the Islamic Azad University, Garmsar Branch, in 2023. Based on the population, 30 participants (15 in the experimental group and 15 in the control group) were purposively selected and randomly assigned. Data were collected using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) and the Sexual Awareness Questionnaire by Snell and colleagues (1991), along with Dr. Mehrnaz Aliakbari's sexual cognitive behavioral therapy protocol. Findings: The results indicated that sexual cognitive behavioral therapy significantly and positively affected sexual awareness, psychological functioning, and self-control in married women. Conclusions: Therefore, sexual cognitive behavioral therapy can be used to improve psychological functioning and self-control in women.
۱۱.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
ISTDP ACT Compassion communication beliefs Divorce
Objective: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) enriched with compassion in altering dysfunctional communication beliefs among women seeking divorce. Methods: Statistical population of this study consisted of all women seeking divorce in District 4 of Tehran city in the year 2021, who were selected from counseling centers supervised by the Organization of Psychology and Welfare through convenience sampling. Next, Eidelson and Epstein’s (1982) Communication Beliefs Questionnaires were distributed for completion, and 45 individuals who scored high on these scales were selected as the sample and randomly placed into two experimental groups and one control group (each group consisting of 15 individuals). For data analysis, descriptive statistical methods (frequency indices, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (multivariate repeated measures analysis of variance) using SPSS-24 were employed. Findings: Results indicated no significant difference between the ISTDP and ACT enriched with compassion in altering dysfunctional communication beliefs. Both groups showed improvement compared to the control group, but no significant difference was noted between the two in terms of effectiveness. Conclusion: Both ISTDP and ACT enriched with compassion are effective in reducing dysfunctional communication beliefs among women seeking divorce, with no significant difference in effectiveness between the two. This suggests that both therapeutic approaches can be beneficial in this context. Future research should consider broader and more diverse samples, longer follow-up periods, and comparisons to active control groups to further understand the sustained impact and efficacy of these therapies.
۱۲.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Women heads of households Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy existential therapy symptoms of demoralization life attitudes
Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and existential therapy on symptoms of demoralization and life attitudes in women heads of households in welfare in the city of Rasht. Methods: The research method was quasi-experimental with a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design with two experimental groups and one control group. The statistical population included all women heads of households in the welfare organization of Rasht city (2159 individuals) in 2021. The sample size included 60 individuals who were randomly assigned to two experimental groups (20 individuals in the existential therapy group and 20 individuals in the cognitive-behavioral therapy group) and one control group (20 individuals). Then, each of the two experimental groups received 8 sessions of 90-minute group therapy. The cognitive-behavioral therapy was based on the cognitive-behavioral therapy protocol by Antony et al. (2013), and the existential therapy was based on the existential therapy protocol by Irvin Yalom (2016). The data collection tools included the Symptoms of Demoralization Questionnaire by Kissane et al. (2004) and the Life Attitudes Questionnaire by Battista (1973). Data analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA. Findings: Based on the effect size values, the effectiveness of both cognitive-behavioral therapy and existential therapy on the demoralization symptoms variable was 43%, and on the life attitudes variable, it was 62%. This effectiveness was significant and persistent (according to the follow-up test results), and both therapies had a lasting impact on the dependent variables. In the variables of demoralization symptoms (F=29.34, p=0.001) and life attitudes (F=62.36, p=0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that there was a significant difference between the three stages of pre-test, post-test, and follow-up in the variables of demoralization symptoms and life attitudes of women heads of households in the two experimental groups (cognitive-behavioral therapy and existential therapy), indicating the significant impact of both therapeutic methods on the research's dependent variables.
۱۳.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Healthy Adult Psychological Empowerment Women schema mode Schema therapy
Objective: The Healthy Adult mode is one of the primary modes in schema therapy, reflecting maturity, mental health, and good judgment. The present study aimed to qualitatively investigate the psychological empowerment of women with a Healthy Adult mode. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using a phenomenological approach. Participants included women aged 20-40 from Isfahan Province in 2023, selected through purposive sampling based on inclusion criteria. Data were examined using semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Data saturation was achieved with 20 interviews. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step method. Findings: After interviewing women with a Healthy Adult mode and analyzing the data, 80 initial codes, 8 sub-themes, and 2 main themes were extracted. Coping and self-awareness were classified under the main themes, and self-compassion, self-regulation, problem-solving ability, mindfulness, developed social relationships, assertiveness, self-awareness, and the concept of a "good enough" parent were classified under the sub-themes. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that Iranian women with a Healthy Adult mode have developed components of psychological empowerment. Ultimately, it is suggested that counseling centers and organizations use practical services based on the findings of this research to enhance the psychological empowerment and promote the adult state of personality in women.
۱۴.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
quality of life early maladaptive schemas Self-care diabetes
Objective: The aim of the present study was to explain the structural model of quality of life based on early maladaptive schemas and the mediating role of self-care in women with type 2 diabetes. Methods: This research is classified as descriptive-correlational using structural equation modeling. The statistical population included all women with type 2 diabetes in Tehran who visited healthcare centers during 2021. The sample comprised 350 women with type 2 diabetes in Tehran in 2021, selected through convenience sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Questionnaire, the Young Schema Questionnaire-Short Form, and the Diabetes Self-Care Activities Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling and Pearson correlation statistical methods with SPSS.22 and AMOS.22 software. Findings: The results showed the fit indices were PCFI=0.655, PNFI=0.661, CMIN/DF=2.90, RMSEA=0.089, IFI=0.917, CFI=0.914, and GFI=0.903, indicating a good fit of the proposed model with the data. The highest coefficient (-0.47) was attributed to the pathway from the domain of impaired autonomy and performance to quality of life. Conclusion: The coefficient of determination for the quality of marital relationship variable in the proposed structural model was 0.889, indicating that exogenous variables could predict 89% of the variations in quality of life, which is a strong prediction.
۱۵.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy Pain Perception Pain Catastrophizing Breast Cancer
Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy on pain perception and pain catastrophizing in women with breast cancer. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 30 women with breast cancer who referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital in Sari in 2024 were studied using convenience sampling. They were then randomly assigned to two groups: the short-term intensive psychodynamic intervention group (15 participants) and the control group (15 participants) without any intervention. The short-term intensive psychodynamic intervention was implemented according to the protocol by Teska et al. (2005) over 16 weekly sessions, each lasting one and a half hours. The samples were assessed at two stages, pre-test and post-test, using the Pain Perception Questionnaire by Schaal et al. (2010) and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale by Rahmati et al. (2017). Data were analyzed using repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance in SPSS24 software. Findings: In the intervention group, the mean scores for pain catastrophizing were (17.20±36.60) and for pain perception were (36.33±80.80) in the pre-test and post-test stages, respectively. Post-test scores significantly decreased compared to pre-test scores in the components of pain catastrophizing and pain perception in the experimental group compared to the control group. Additionally, the results showed that intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy had a statistically significant effect on pain catastrophizing (P<0.05, F=24.41) and pain perception (P<0.05, F=56.201) after adjusting the means of the two groups based on the pre-test score. Conclusion: The results indicate the effectiveness of intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy on pain catastrophizing and pain perception in women with breast cancer. Therefore, this therapy can be used alongside other medical treatment methods in hospitals and clinics dedicated to breast cancer patients to reduce the psychological needs and problems of women with this condition.
۱۶.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Self-compassion Infertility loneliness Health-Related Quality of Life Psychological well-being
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of self-compassion training on reducing loneliness and improving health-related quality of life in infertile women. Methods: A randomized controlled trial design was used, involving 30 infertile women recruited from a specialized infertility treatment center. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 15) receiving eight sessions of self-compassion training or a control group (n = 15) with no intervention. Assessments were conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and at a five-month follow-up using the Loneliness Questionnaire and the Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests. Findings: The experimental group showed significant reductions in loneliness from pre-test (M = 45.32, SD = 6.45) to post-test (M = 30.21, SD = 5.28) and follow-up (M = 31.12, SD = 5.34), while the control group remained stable. Health-related quality of life significantly improved in the experimental group from pre-test (M = 62.45, SD = 7.34) to post-test (M = 78.53, SD = 6.78) and follow-up (M = 77.95, SD = 6.65), with minimal changes in the control group. ANOVA results indicated significant time and group interactions for both loneliness (F(2, 56) = 67.03, p < .001, η² = .71) and health-related quality of life (F(2, 56) = 113.20, p < .001, η² = .80). Conclusion: Self-compassion training is effective in reducing loneliness and improving health-related quality of life in infertile women. These benefits were sustained at the five-month follow-up, highlighting the long-term potential of self-compassion interventions in supporting the psychological well-being of infertile women.
۱۷.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Imago therapy cognitive flexibility post-traumatic growth women affected by extramarital affairs
Objective: The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of Imago therapy on cognitive flexibility and post-traumatic growth in women affected by extramarital affairs. Methods: The research community included all women affected by extramarital affairs in the city of Isfahan (including the Nik Ovin Psychological Clinic and the Hazrat Abolfazl Charity Institute) in the spring of 2024. Accordingly, a group of women affected by extramarital affairs was randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group (15 individuals) and a control group (15 individuals). The experimental group received Imago therapy sessions, while the control group received no treatment. The data were analyzed using repeated measures tests with SPSS software version 23. Findings: The findings indicated that Imago therapy was effective in enhancing psychological flexibility and its subscales, as well as post-traumatic growth and its subscales, in women affected by extramarital affairs (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The obtained results showed that Imago therapy could be utilized as an effective approach for improving women affected by extramarital affairs, playing a significant role in enhancing their quality of life.
۱۸.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Women with recurrent miscarriages Distress tolerance Cognitive Emotion Regulation marital quality of life dialectical behavior therapy-based skills training
Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy-based skills training on distress tolerance, cognitive emotion regulation, and marital quality of life in women with recurrent miscarriages. Methods: The statistical population consisted of all women who visited infertility clinics in Tehran in 2019-2020. A sample of 30 women was selected using convenience and purposive sampling methods, based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and was randomly assigned to experimental and control groups (15 women in each group). The questionnaires used in this study were the Distress Tolerance Questionnaire by Simons and Gaher (2005), the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire by Garnefski, Kraaij, and Spinhoven (2006), and the Marital Quality of Life Questionnaire by Fletcher, Simpson, and Thomas (2000). The statistical method used was repeated measures, with a significance level of 0.05. Findings: According to the results, the differences in means between the two groups in the pre-test, post-test, and follow-up stages were significant. There were significant differences in distress tolerance, cognitive emotion regulation, and marital quality of life between the two groups. The dialectical behavior therapy-based skills training had an impact on the variables of distress tolerance, cognitive emotion regulation, and marital quality of life, with effect sizes of 0.885, 0.910, and 0.983, respectively. Conclusion: Given the confirmed effectiveness of this therapy, it is recommended that these women receive appropriate psychological treatments alongside medical treatments.
۱۹.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Sleep Quality Migraine headaches Rumination Panic attacks
Objective: The present study aimed to predict sleep quality based on migraine headaches and rumination in women with panic attacks. Methods: This applied and descriptive-correlational study included a sample of women who visited psychological clinics in the city of Isfahan. Using convenience sampling, 210 participants were selected. Data were collected using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (1989), Ahvaz Migraine Headache Symptoms Questionnaire (1997), and the Rumination-Reflection Questionnaire by Trapnell and Campbell (1999). For data analysis, simultaneous multiple regression was performed using SPSS version 21. Findings: The findings indicated that migraine headaches and rumination could explain 30.5% of the variance in sleep quality among patients with panic attacks. Specifically, with each standard deviation increase in migraine headache and rumination scores, there was a corresponding increase of 0.532 and 0.371 standard deviations in sleep quality scores, respectively (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Based on the results, migraine headaches and rumination can predict sleep quality in patients with panic attacks.
۲۰.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Schema therapy anger management Rumination married women with high marital dissatisfaction
Objective: The present study was conducted with the aim of examining the effectiveness of schema therapy on anger management and rumination in married women with high marital dissatisfaction. Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental design, utilizing a pretest-posttest control group with baseline assessment, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up measurements. A total of 30 married women with high marital dissatisfaction, who attended couples therapy clinics in the western part of Tehran between April and July 2022, were selected based on inclusion criteria and their willingness to participate in the research (with written informed consent obtained). These participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (schema therapy; n=15) or the control group (n=15) using random allocation. All participants completed the Anger Control Scale and Rumination Questionnaire at three stages of measurement. The therapy sessions were conducted in a group format over eight sessions, each lasting 1 to 1.5 hours, according to the schema therapy protocol. The hypotheses regarding the effectiveness of the intervention were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Findings: The results of this study indicated that there was no significant difference in the mean variables of anger management and rumination between the two groups at the pretest stage, suggesting the homogeneity of the research groups at this stage. However, there were significant differences between the two groups at the posttest and follow-up stages, indicating the effectiveness of the intervention on the mentioned variables and the persistence of its effects at the follow-up stage. A comparison between the experimental and control groups also revealed significant differences in the components of anger management and rumination. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that the aforementioned therapy can be utilized as a psychological intervention to improve anger management and rumination in married women with high marital dissatisfaction.
۲۱.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Marital satisfaction Self-differentiation Critical thinking emotional self-regulation happiness Structural Equation Modeling married women
Objective: The primary objective of this study was to develop and validate a structural model of marital satisfaction among married women, based on self-differentiation, critical thinking, and emotional self-regulation, with happiness as a mediating variable. Methods and Materials: This study utilized a quantitative, descriptive-correlational design with a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. The sample comprised married women who visited the counseling centers at the University of Tehran between January 2023 and August 2023. A total of 330 participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using validated questionnaires, including the Self-Differentiation Scale, Critical Thinking Questionnaire, Emotional Self-Regulation Scale, Oxford Happiness Questionnaire, and ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale. The data were analyzed using SEM to assess the model's fit and test the hypothesized relationships between variables. Findings: The results indicated that the proposed structural model fit the data well, with satisfactory model fit indices (χ²/df = 3.618, RMSEA = .061, CFI = .923). Self-differentiation (β = .217, p = .033), critical thinking (β = .230, p = .01), and emotional self-regulation (β = .201, p = .01) had significant direct effects on marital satisfaction. Additionally, happiness significantly mediated the relationships between self-differentiation (β = .229, p = .01), critical thinking (β = .178, p = .01), and emotional self-regulation (β = .200, p = .01) with marital satisfaction. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of self-differentiation, critical thinking, and emotional self-regulation as key factors influencing marital satisfaction among married women. The mediating role of happiness highlights its significance in enhancing marital satisfaction by fostering positive emotions and reducing stress.
۲۲.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
marital adjustment Self-compassion Marital Self-Regulation Counseling married women
Objective: The study aimed to investigate the predictive roles of self-compassion and marital self-regulation on marital adjustment among married women attending counseling centers in Tehran in 2023. It sought to enrich the understanding of how these psychological constructs contribute to marital satisfaction and stability. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional design was employed with a sample of 350 married women selected through available sampling from various counseling centers in Tehran. Measures included the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS) to assess marital adjustment, the Self-Compassion Scale developed by Neff (2003) for evaluating self-compassion levels, and a 16-item scale by Wilson et al. (2005) for measuring marital self-regulation. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 27, with linear regression analyses performed to explore the relationships between the constructs. Findings: The findings revealed that both self-compassion and marital self-regulation significantly predicted marital adjustment among the participants. Specifically, higher levels of self-compassion and marital self-regulation were associated with better marital adjustment. The regression model explained 37% of the variance in marital adjustment scores, highlighting the substantial impact of these factors on marital satisfaction. Conclusion: This study underscores the critical importance of self-compassion and marital self-regulation in fostering marital adjustment. The findings suggest that interventions aimed at enhancing these psychological resources could contribute significantly to improving marital satisfaction and relationship stability among couples, particularly those seeking counseling services.
۲۳.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Schema therapy Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy compassion-focused therapy Coping skills Fear of Marriage
Objective: The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of schema therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and compassion-focused therapy on components of loving, emotional empathy, marital values, coping skills, and willingness to marry among single women with a fear of marriage. Methods and Materials: This experimental study used a pretest-posttest-follow-up design with four groups (three experimental groups and one control group). The statistical population included all girls with pre-marital fears in the city of Semirom. From this population, 60 participants were selected using convenience sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and were assigned to four non-randomized groups. The control group was placed on a waiting list, while the three experimental groups received schema therapy-based interventions (Fadavi Nia & Khayyatan, 2021), cognitive-behavioral therapy (Mohammadpour et al., 2015), and compassion-focused therapy (Pirjavid et al., 2021) over eight 90-minute sessions. All participants responded to the Coping Skills Questionnaire (Billings & Moos, 1981) in three phases. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics. Findings: The results showed that all three methods effectively improved the two dimensions of avoidance-oriented and problem-focused coping. Conclusion: Based on these results, it can be concluded that these three methods are suitable for improving psychological constructs, with schema therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy being more effective in enhancing the dimensions of coping mechanisms. Counselors and psychotherapists can use the techniques and strategies from these methods to improve these dimensions.
۲۴.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Intimacy-Based Communication Therapy Intervention emotional abuse Infidelity
Objective: The present study aimed to analyze the role of intimacy-based communication therapy intervention on emotional abuse in betrayed women who seek to improve their relationship with their spouse. Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test and post-test, including a control group. The study sample consisted of 30 women experiencing marital difficulties due to spousal infidelity, who were selected through convenience sampling from among women referring to counseling centers in Qeshm County. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups of 15 (15 participants in the control group and 15 in the experimental group). The sampling method involved identifying women with marital problems who reported experiencing spousal infidelity. The researcher then assessed their willingness to participate in educational sessions before selecting the final sample. The experimental group underwent an intimacy-based communication therapy intervention, which was conducted in eight 90-minute sessions, held twice a week. Data collection was carried out using the Emotional Abuse Questionnaire developed by Brehimi (2008). The data were analyzed using SPSS software, employing both descriptive statistics (demographic tables and charts) and inferential statistics (covariance analysis). Findings: The findings indicated that intimacy-based communication therapy intervention had a significant effect on emotional abuse and all its dimensions—except for social restriction—among betrayed women seeking to improve their relationship with their spouse. Conclusion: Therefore, intimacy-based communication therapy intervention can be effectively utilized for supporting women and girls who have experienced emotional distress.
۲۵.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Mindfulness-based stress reduction Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Affective Control pregnancy
Objective: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on affective control in pregnant women. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 45 pregnant women from Ilam, Iran, who were randomly assigned to one of three groups: MBSR, ACT, or control. Participants in the experimental groups underwent 8 weekly group sessions of either MBSR or ACT, while the control group received no intervention. Affective control was measured using the Affective Control Scale, which includes subscales for anger, anxiety, depression, and positive affect. Pre-test and post-test assessments were administered to all groups, and data were analyzed using ANCOVA to compare the effects of the interventions across groups. Findings: The results indicated significant improvements in affective control for both MBSR and ACT groups compared to the control group. The ANCOVA showed significant effects for both MBSR and ACT in reducing anxiety, improving positive affect, and regulating anger, with no significant difference between the two experimental groups. The control group showed no significant changes in any of the emotional regulation variables. Both experimental groups demonstrated a large effect size for affective control (η² = 0.53), with smaller but significant effects on anxiety and positive affect (η² = 0.19 and η² = 0.17, respectively). Conclusion: Both MBSR and ACT were effective in improving affective control and emotional regulation in pregnant women, with similar outcomes for both interventions. These findings suggest that both therapies could be useful tools for managing stress and enhancing emotional well-being during pregnancy.
۲۶.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
early maladaptive schemas Emotional Divorce married female students
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between early maladaptive schemas (EMS), alexithymia, and emotional divorce among married female students, focusing on their predictive roles in marital detachment. Methods: A correlational design was employed with 240 married female students recruited via convenience sampling from Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon Branch (2023–2024 academic year). Participants completed validated self-report measures: the Young Schema Questionnaire-Short Form (YSQ-SF; Young, 1995) assessing EMS across five domains (e.g., Impaired Limits, Other-Directedness), the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20; Bagby et al., 1994) measuring alexithymia subscales (Difficulty Identifying Feelings, Difficulty Describing Feelings, Externally Oriented Thinking), and the Gottman Emotional Divorce Questionnaire (GEDQ; Gottman, 1997). Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and stepwise regression via SPSS-26, with significance set at *p* < .01. Findings: Significant correlations emerged between EMS domains, alexithymia, and emotional divorce (*r* = 0.18–0.53, *p* < .01). Stepwise regression revealed Impaired Limits as the strongest predictor (β = 0.39, *p* < .01), explaining 15% of variance, followed by incremental contributions from Difficulty Identifying Feelings (ΔR² = 3%, β = 0.23), Other-Directedness (ΔR² = 1%, β = 0.13), Externally Oriented Thinking (ΔR² = 2%, β = 0.18), and Impaired Autonomy (ΔR² = 2%, β = -0.22), cumulatively accounting for 23% of variance (F = 15.16, *p* < .01). Negative β for Impaired Autonomy suggested suppression effects. Conclusion: EMS and alexithymia significantly predict emotional divorce, with Impaired Limits and emotion-regulation deficits being central drivers. Findings underscore the need for schema-focused interventions (e.g., schema therapy) and emotion-regulation training in marital counseling to mitigate detachment. Future research should explore dyadic interactions and cultural moderators to refine predictive models.
۲۷.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
subjective development Women Participation Social capital
Objective: The present study was performed aiming to address the social capital and participation of elderly women based on the sport acceptance. Methods: The research method is applied and is a descriptive- survey research. The statistical population of the study includes the elderly women. 227 elderly women were selected as the sample size and simple probabilistic sampling method was used. Standard questionnaire was administered and SPSS and PLS were used for data analysis. Findings: The effect of cognitive social capital variable on the elderly women’s sport participation subjective development was 9.98, the effect of communication social capital on the subjective development of elderly was 2.71, the effect of structural social capital on the objective development of elderly women’s sport participation was 6.98 and effect of structural social capital on the subjective development of elderly women’s sport participation is 2.32 indicating that variables are influenced by each other. (p<0.05). Conclusion: according to the findings, increasing the social capital rate of elderly women is a promising y to enhance the participation of elderly women through sport participation. So, authorities and policy makers should plan and make policies in order to increase social capital as a variable affecting sport participation of elderly people.
۲۸.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy Resilience Self-Efficacy Female Heads of Households
Objective: The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) on resilience and self-efficacy in female heads of households. Methods: This research employed a quasi-experimental method with a pre-test and post-test control group design. The statistical population included female heads of households who sought counseling services at centers in Tehran in 2023. From this population, 30 individuals were selected using convenience sampling and were randomly assigned to two groups: an experimental group (15 participants) and a control group (15 participants). The instruments used in this study were the Resilience Questionnaire and the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire. The experimental group received eight two-hour sessions of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, while the control group did not receive any specific intervention. Findings: The findings indicated that the mean scores of resilience and self-efficacy in the post-test were significantly higher than those in the pre-test for the experimental group. Conclusion: Consequently, it can be concluded that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy has an effect on enhancing resilience and self-efficacy in female heads of households.
۲۹.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
ADHD Women professional settings workplace challenges Coping Strategies workplace support professional
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in women remains underexplored in occupational contexts, despite its significant impact on functioning and well-being. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of women with OCD in the workplace. Utilizing a qualitative, phenomenological approach, the research was conducted in Tehran, Iran. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 employed women formally diagnosed with OCD across diverse professional sectors. Sampling continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Interview transcripts were analyzed thematically using NVivo software. Four core themes emerged: Workplace Challenges, Coping Mechanisms, Perceived Organizational Support, and Effects on Professional Identity. Participants reported challenges such as intrusive thoughts during tasks, compulsive checking behaviors, time-consuming rituals, perfectionism, and heightened anxiety in high-pressure environments. Coping mechanisms included cognitive-behavioral strategies, medication adherence, mindfulness practices, supportive routines, and seeking social or therapeutic support. Perceptions of organizational support ranged widely, with positive experiences linked to empathetic supervisors, mental health accommodations, and flexible work structures. OCD also influenced participants’ professional identity, contributing to both self-doubt and the recognition of strengths such as attention to detail, reliability, and conscientiousness. These findings underscore the necessity for workplace awareness, mental health inclusivity, and targeted interventions to support women with OCD. Creating supportive and stigma-free environments can enhance these employees’ job satisfaction, engagement, and career development
۳۰.
کلیدواژه‌ها:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Depression Cognitive Biases married women randomized controlled trial
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on reducing depression and cognitive biases in married women. Methods and Materials: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 30 married women in Tehran who exhibited elevated depressive symptoms and cognitive biases. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 15) receiving eight weekly 75-minute ACT sessions or a control group (n = 15) receiving no psychological intervention. Depression and cognitive biases were assessed at pretest, posttest, and five-month follow-up using the Beck Depression Inventory-II and the Cognitive Bias Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post-hoc tests in SPSS-27. Findings: Repeated measures ANOVA indicated significant time × group interactions for depression (F(2, 54) = 45.22, p < .001, η² = .63) and cognitive biases (F(2, 54) = 39.52, p < .001, η² = .60). Bonferroni tests showed significant reductions in depression and cognitive bias scores from pretest to posttest (p < .001) and pretest to follow-up (p < .001) in the experimental group. No significant differences were found between posttest and follow-up scores (p > .05), indicating stability of treatment effects. Conclusion: Findings suggest that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is effective in reducing depressive symptoms and cognitive biases in married women and that these benefits persist over a five-month follow-up. ACT may offer a promising therapeutic option for addressing both emotional and cognitive vulnerabilities in this population by promoting psychological flexibility and values-based action.
