E-ISSN: 3041-9026 Director-in-Charge: Dr. Nadereh Saadati Editor-in-Chief: Dr. Amelia Rizzo Associate editor: Dr. Sefa Bulut Owner: KMAN Research Institute Publisher: KMAN Publication Inc. (KMANPUB) Contact email: psychnexus@kmanpub.com / kmanpsychnexus@gmail.com Open access: YES KMAN Counseling and Psychology Nexus stands as a pioneering megajournal in the field of psychology, offering an innovative approach to scholarly publishing. It uniquely combines both open peer-review and double-blind anonymous peer-review processes, ensuring the highest standards of academic rigor and transparency. KMAN Counseling and Psychology Nexus invites researchers and practitioners to contribute to these dynamic fields. Each section is open for new submissions, welcoming innovative and impactful research that advances the understanding of various psychological disciplines. Authors are encouraged to share their insights and discoveries, contributing to the rich tapestry of knowledge in the realm of psychological science. Sections and Focus Areas: Health Psychology: This section is dedicated to manuscripts exploring the interplay between psychological factors and physical health. It emphasizes research aimed at understanding how psychological variables impact physical well-being and developing interventions to enhance health and wellness. Clinical Psychology: Focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses and emotional disorders, this section encourages manuscripts that delve into the causes and mechanisms of mental illnesses and propose effective intervention strategies. Rehabilitation Counseling: Manuscripts in this section concentrate on enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The focus is on overcoming barriers in various life aspects, including employment and education, and promoting independence and self-sufficiency. Educational Psychology and Counseling: This section invites research that aids students in achieving academic and personal success. Key areas include strategies for improving study skills, time management, and the development of social and emotional skills crucial for school success and beyond. Family and Couple Therapy: This section is divided into two sub-areas: Family Therapy: Research here aims to enhance family communication, resolve conflicts, and understand the dynamics of healthy family functioning. Couple Therapy: Manuscripts should focus on improving communication and resolving conflicts in romantic relationships, exploring the elements that contribute to healthy relationship dynamics. Occupational and Organizational Counseling: This section looks for manuscripts that address the well-being and productivity of employees, focusing on creating positive work environments, employee wellness, and the impact of work-related stress. Developmental Psychology: Dedicated to understanding the lifelong changes in individuals, this section seeks manuscripts that explore psychological, cognitive, and social development from infancy to adulthood, including influences like language acquisition, emotional and social development, and the role of cultural and societal factors. Individuals with Special Needs: This section focuses on the development of communication skills, emotional regulation, social interaction, and adaptive learning strategies. Additionally, these studies explore the impact of environmental factors, such as family dynamics and educational settings, on the psychological well-being of individuals with special needs. The goal is to develop tailored interventions that enhance the quality of life, foster independence, and support the integration of individuals with special needs into society. KMANCPN publishes two issues per year, with occasional special issues coming in addition. About the Publisher Publisher: KMAN Publication Inc. Publisher Office: Unit 5‑10825 Yonge St, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada, L4C 3E3 https://journals.kmanpub.com Email: kmanpu@kmanpub.com Telegram: +1 (647) 656‑4401 | WhatsApp: +1 (437) 429‑3507 Germany Office: Dratelnstrasse, Wohnung A60, 21119 Hamburg, Germany (+4915207720487)
Exploring the Components of Subjective Well-Being Among Individuals Living in Urban Stressful Environments
The aim of this study was to explore the psychological, social, and environmental components of subjective well-being among individuals residing in stressful urban environments in the United Kingdom. This qualitative study employed an exploratory design to capture participants’ lived experiences of well-being in the context of urban stress. A purposive sampling strategy was used to recruit 28 adults living in metropolitan and mid-sized urban areas across the United Kingdom. Semi-structured interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was reached, focusing on coping strategies, sources of support, and perceptions of well-being. Each interview lasted between 45 and 70 minutes, was audio-recorded with consent, and subsequently transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis supported by NVivo 14 software. Reflexive memoing and iterative coding were employed to ensure rigor, and Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach guided the analytical process. Analysis revealed three overarching themes shaping subjective well-being: (1) psychological and emotional well-being, which included coping with stress, resilience, emotional regulation, and challenges such as anxiety and burnout; (2) social and relational well-being, encompassing family support, friendships, workplace relations, and community belonging, alongside the negative impact of social isolation; and (3) environmental and lifestyle well-being, which included access to green spaces, urban infrastructure, financial stability, safety, cultural participation, and technology use. Participants emphasized the protective role of resilience, social support, and access to restorative environments, while highlighting financial insecurity, social isolation, and digital overuse as key threats to well-being. Subjective well-being in urban stressful environments is a multidimensional construct shaped by individual coping strategies, social support systems, and environmental conditions. Strengthening resilience, enhancing community connectedness, and addressing structural urban challenges are essential for promoting healthier, more sustainable urban living.
Occupational and Organizational Counseling
Copyright (c) 2025 Jiantang Yang, Parichehr Mehdiabadi , Anni Kröger (Author)
Exploring the Role of Teacher Scaffolding in Fostering Independent Learning
This study aimed to explore how teacher scaffolding practices contribute to the development of independent learning among students in Malaysia. A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured interviews with 25 teachers from secondary schools and higher education institutions across Malaysia. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, ensuring diversity in subject areas and teaching experience. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Interviews, lasting 45–60 minutes, were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis with NVivo 14 software. Coding followed an iterative process to identify open codes, subthemes, and overarching themes. Trustworthiness was enhanced through peer debriefing and reflective memoing. Four major themes emerged from the analysis. First, teachers reported diverse instructional scaffolding strategies, including guided questioning, modeling, chunking, feedback, gradual release of responsibility, and differentiated support. Second, scaffolding was found to promote learner autonomy by fostering reflection, decision-making, self-regulation, peer collaboration, and intrinsic motivation. Third, teachers emphasized socio-emotional support such as building trust, encouragement, creating safe learning climates, empowering confidence, addressing anxiety, and cultural sensitivity as integral to fostering independence. Finally, participants identified challenges and conditions of scaffolding, including time constraints, large class sizes, variability in student readiness, limited resources, exam pressures, and sustainability of independence. Collectively, these findings illustrate scaffolding as a multidimensional process combining cognitive, motivational, and socio-emotional dimensions. The study demonstrates that teacher scaffolding plays a pivotal role in facilitating independent learning by integrating instructional, motivational, and relational strategies. However, systemic and contextual barriers, such as curriculum pressures and limited resources, can constrain its effectiveness. The findings underscore the need for professional development, institutional support, and policy initiatives to strengthen scaffolding practices and ensure their sustainability in fostering lifelong independent learners.
Copyright (c) 2025 Syarifah Maisarah (Corresponding Author); Saeid Motevalli (Author)
Exploring the Dimensions of Motivation in Stroke Survivors During Physical Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Inquiry
The objective of this study was to explore the dimensions of motivation in stroke survivors during physical rehabilitation, focusing on the personal, social, and environmental factors that shape engagement and recovery. This qualitative study employed an exploratory design to investigate motivational experiences of stroke survivors. Twenty participants (11 men and 9 women, aged 38–72) were recruited purposively from rehabilitation centers across the United States. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, each lasting 45–75 minutes, and data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis with NVivo 14 software. Coding was carried out iteratively, with two researchers independently coding transcripts to ensure reliability, followed by consensus meetings to finalize themes. Three overarching themes emerged from the data. The first, personal and psychological factors, encompassed subthemes such as sense of purpose, emotional resilience, self-efficacy, coping strategies, identity reconstruction, and cognitive engagement. The second, social and relational support, included family encouragement, peer interaction, professional support, community involvement, and social recognition. The third, rehabilitation environment and external influences, comprised therapeutic setting, individualized programs, technological aids, physical and financial barriers, healthcare policies, reward systems, and environmental stimuli. Participants described motivation as a dynamic construct shaped by internal beliefs, relational networks, and systemic conditions, with direct quotations illustrating these lived experiences. The findings demonstrate that motivation in stroke rehabilitation is multidimensional, integrating psychological, social, and environmental domains. Recognizing and addressing these interconnected factors can enhance rehabilitation engagement, optimize functional outcomes, and promote holistic recovery. The study underscores the need for patient-centered, socially embedded, and technologically supported rehabilitation strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Stephanie Flores Carrera (Author); Seyed Amir Saadati (Corresponding Author)
Identifying Coping Strategies in Parents of Children With Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Qualitative Inquiry
This study aimed to explore and identify coping strategies employed by parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, focusing on emotional, social, practical, and resilience-based dimensions of adaptation. A qualitative research design was adopted, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 23 parents of children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders residing in Canada. Participants were recruited purposively through support groups, clinical networks, and community organizations. Interviews, lasting between 45 and 90 minutes, were conducted either face-to-face or online, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. NVivo 14 software supported data organization and thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework. Credibility and trustworthiness were enhanced through peer debriefing, independent coding, reflexive memoing, and the use of thick description. Analysis revealed four overarching themes: (1) Emotional coping—including stress management, emotional expression, reframing, self-compassion, and hope maintenance; (2) Social support strategies—such as peer support, family involvement, professional guidance, online communities, and workplace flexibility; (3) Practical coping—involving structured routines, resource utilization, problem-solving, and information-seeking behaviors; and (4) Personal growth and resilience—comprising identity transformation, spiritual coping, meaning-making, empowerment through knowledge, and self-care practices. Illustrative quotations from participants highlighted how coping strategies were dynamically employed to navigate ongoing challenges and sustain parental well-being. Parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders adopt multifaceted coping strategies that extend beyond stress relief to encompass resilience-building and personal growth. These findings underscore the importance of designing culturally and contextually relevant interventions that strengthen parental coping resources, enhance family adaptation, and improve overall quality of life.
Copyright (c) 2025 James Ma (Author); Seyed Alireza Saadati (Corresponding Author)
Exploring the Components of Psychological Safety in Multicultural Work Teams
This study aimed to explore and identify the core components of psychological safety as experienced and constructed in multicultural work teams. A qualitative research design was adopted to capture the lived experiences of employees working in culturally diverse teams. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 18 participants employed in multicultural organizations across Canada. Purposive sampling ensured diversity in cultural background, professional roles, and tenure. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. NVivo 14 software supported the process of thematic analysis, enabling systematic coding and categorization of data. Strategies including member checks, peer debriefing, and audit trails were employed to enhance credibility, dependability, and confirmability. The analysis revealed four overarching themes: (1) interpersonal trust and respect, encompassing mutual respect, fairness, empathy, reliability, and inclusive communication; (2) inclusive leadership practices, highlighting leader support, participative decision-making, cultural sensitivity, conflict mediation, recognition, and role modeling; (3) effective communication climate, including clarity, open feedback channels, language inclusivity, management of misunderstandings, and collaboration; and (4) cultural integration and learning, comprising valuing diversity, cross-cultural learning, reducing stereotypes, adaptability, team cohesion, and mutual growth. Illustrative quotations from participants emphasized how these components collectively fostered an environment of safety, openness, and belonging in multicultural work teams. The study demonstrates that psychological safety in multicultural teams is a multidimensional construct shaped by interpersonal, leadership, communicative, and cultural processes. By uncovering the specific components that underpin safety, this research advances theoretical understanding while providing practical insights for organizations seeking to leverage cultural diversity effectively. The findings highlight the critical importance of inclusive leadership, fair and empathetic practices, and structured opportunities for cultural integration in fostering safety and innovation in diverse workplaces.
Copyright (c) 2025 Molly Schwarzenberger , Derek Péloquin , Jessica Brassard (Author)
Effectiveness of Wise Parenting Training on Mothers’ Parenting Stress and Adolescents’ Resilience
This study was conducted with the aim of examining the effectiveness of wise parenting training on mothers’ parenting stress and the resilience of their adolescents. The research method was quasi-experimental, employing a pretest–posttest design with two experimental groups and one control group. The statistical population consisted of all mothers with adolescent children, from whom, based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 mothers with adolescents—along with their 30 adolescent daughters—were selected through purposive sampling. They were then randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (each group consisting of 15 mothers and their adolescents). Only the mothers received direct parenting training, while all participants, including the mothers and their adolescents, were assessed at three stages of the study using the research instruments. The research instruments included the Parenting Stress Index developed by Abidin (1990) for the mothers and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale developed in 2003 for the adolescents. While members of the control group were placed on a waiting list, mothers in the experimental groups received wise parenting training over eight 90-minute sessions. The data were analyzed at two levels: descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (repeated measures analysis of variance). The results indicated that both methods had equally significant effects on the variables related to parents and adolescents in this study. Therefore, based on these findings, it can be concluded that the wise parenting training package can be effective in improving parenting stress and adolescents’ resilience.
Copyright (c) 2025 Razieh Rabiee (Author); Zahra Yousefi (Corresponding Author); Mansoureh Bahramipourisfahani (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on Working Memory in Individuals with Primary Insomnia
Primary insomnia is one of the common disorders that has a significant negative impact on cognitive functioning, including working memory. The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) on working memory in individuals with primary insomnia. A total of 48 participants (16 in each group) were selected from among individuals with primary insomnia through convenience sampling while observing the inclusion criteria. They were then randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. The research design was a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design with a one-month follow-up. The data collection instrument was the N-Back Test (1958). Mixed ANOVA, Bonferroni post hoc test, and SPSS (Version 26) were used for data analysis. The results indicated that both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy were effective in improving working memory in individuals with primary insomnia; however, there was no significant difference between the effectiveness of the two treatments. The findings of this study showed that both therapeutic approaches were effective in improving working memory. Nevertheless, future studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-ups are required to examine the stability of treatment effects and enhance the generalizability of the results.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Copyright (c) 2025 Behnoush Shariati (Author); Mehrdad Sabet (Corresponding Author); Tahereh Ranjbaripour , Sheida Sodagar, Fatemeh Mohammadi Shirmahaleh (Author)
Effectiveness and Comparison of Transdiagnostic Therapy and Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy on Positive Meta-Emotions in Pregnant Women
This study examined and compared the effectiveness of transdiagnostic therapy and cognitive–behavioral therapy on positive meta-emotions in pregnant women. The research employed an experimental design with pretest, posttest, and three-month follow-up measurements, along with a control group. The statistical population consisted of pregnant women who visited District 14 of Tehran between February 2025 and April 2025. A sample of 45 participants (15 in each group: transdiagnostic therapy, cognitive–behavioral therapy, and control) was selected using convenience and random sampling. The interventions consisted of eight weekly 90-minute sessions of transdiagnostic therapy and cognitive–behavioral therapy. The research instrument was the Meta-Emotion Scale (Mitmansgruber, 2009). Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA (with Greenhouse–Geisser correction due to violation of Mauchly’s test of sphericity), Shapiro–Wilk test, Levene’s test, and Bonferroni post hoc test in SPSS-27. Statistical assumptions (normality and homogeneity of variances) were confirmed. Both interventions produced significant effects on increasing positive meta-emotions compared to the control group, and follow-up results indicated stability of therapeutic effects. The Bonferroni test confirmed posttest and follow-up differences between the experimental groups and the control group (p < .05), although no significant difference was observed between transdiagnostic therapy and cognitive–behavioral therapy (p < .05). The effect of time was significant for all three variables (p < .001). The findings indicated that both transdiagnostic therapy and cognitive–behavioral therapy are effective and durable in improving positive meta-emotions, with neither demonstrating superiority over the other. These findings highlight the applicability of both approaches in pregnancy-related interventions. It is recommended that future studies focus on long-term follow-up and larger sample sizes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Masoumeh Vatandoost (Author); Reza Khakpour (Corresponding Author); Rahim Davari (Author)
Effectiveness of Active Music Therapy on Echolalia and Pitch Frequency in Level-One Autism Spectrum Disorder Children
This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of an active music therapy protocol on reducing echolalia and improving pitch frequency among children with Level-One Autism Spectrum Disorder. This semi-experimental study employed a pretest–posttest design with a control group. Twenty-two children aged 4–7 years with Level-One ASD were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to either an active music therapy group or a control group. The intervention was delivered across eight weeks using structured rhythmic, vocal, and auditory–motor activities. Echolalia was assessed using the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (Echolalia subscale), and pitch-related prosodic features were analyzed using Praat acoustic software. Data were collected across pretest, posttest, and follow-up phases. Statistical analysis was conducted using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA and Bonferroni-adjusted post-hoc tests. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a significant time × group interaction for pitch frequency, indicating greater improvement in the active music therapy group compared with controls across posttest and follow-up (p < .05). The intervention group showed a marked increase in pitch frequency from pretest to follow-up, while the control group demonstrated no meaningful change. Echolalia scores exhibited a significant reduction in the experimental group compared with the control group over time (p < .05), confirming the therapeutic effect of rhythmic–vocal engagement. Bonferroni post-hoc comparisons further indicated that the most substantial improvements occurred between pretest and follow-up in the therapy group, with effect sizes in the moderate-to-large range. Active music therapy produced significant improvements in prosodic features—particularly pitch frequency—and reductions in echolalia among Level-One ASD children, with gains maintained over time. The findings highlight the value of rhythmic, auditory–motor, and vocal synchronization activities for enhancing speech-related outcomes in this population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fahimeh Ahmadizade (Author); Said Ali mohammad Mousavi (Corresponding Author); Narges Babakhani (Author)
Studying Divorced Couples’ Lived Experiences of Social and Psychological Factors Influencing Divorce to Propose an Appropriate Conceptual Model
This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of divorced couples to identify the underlying social and psychological factors influencing divorce and to propose an integrative conceptual model explaining its process and outcomes. The research adopted a qualitative design using the grounded theory approach based on Strauss and Corbin’s systematic method (2008). The statistical population comprised divorced couples residing in Shiraz, Iran. Participants were selected through purposive sampling according to specific inclusion criteria: at least two months and a maximum of five years since divorce, absence of severe physical illness as the main cause of divorce, and willingness to participate. Semi-structured interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was achieved with ten couples. Data were analyzed using three levels of coding—open, axial, and selective—to identify causal, contextual, intervening, strategic, and consequential components of the divorce process. Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) criteria of credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability were applied to ensure trustworthiness. The results revealed that divorce is not an instantaneous or single-cause event but a gradual, multifactorial, and structured process shaped by the interplay of individual, relational, and sociocultural dynamics. Causal factors included dysfunctional family backgrounds, patriarchal gender beliefs, emotional immaturity, and poor communication. Contextual conditions, such as cultural taboos, social pressure for endurance, and lack of premarital education, intensified the process. Intervening variables, including personality traits, economic dependence, and presence of children, acted as catalysts or inhibitors. Strategies like silence, avoidance, and concealment deepened marital alienation. Consequences spanned psychological distress, social isolation, and in rare cases, identity reconstruction. Divorce in Iranian society represents a multidimensional psychosocial phenomenon rooted in cultural, emotional, and structural inequalities, requiring multi-level interventions that integrate individual, familial, and societal support systems.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mitra Kerdegar (Author); Majid Barzegar (Corresponding Author); Hossein Baghooli , Maryam Kouroshnia (Author)
The Effect of the “Building a Lasting Connection (BLC)” Program on Improving Communication and Increasing Intimacy in Couples About to Marry
This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of the Building a Lasting Connection (BLC) program on improving communication patterns and increasing intimacy among couples about to marry. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group and a follow-up phase. The statistical population consisted of all engaged couples who attended Pars Ravan, Khorshid Farda, and Armaghan-e Zendegi Counseling Centers in Karaj during the last quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025. Using convenience sampling, 40 participants (20 couples) were selected and randomly assigned to an experimental group, which received the six-session Building a Lasting Connection (BLC) intervention, and a control group that received no treatment. Data were collected using the Couple Intimacy Questionnaire (Vonden Broeck & Bertman, 1995) and the Couple Communication Patterns Questionnaire (Christensen & Salaway, 1984). Data analysis was conducted using multivariate analysis of variance with repeated measures (MANOVA) via SPSS version 23. The results revealed that the BLC program significantly increased intimacy and mutual constructive communication while decreasing mutual avoidance and demand/withdraw communication styles in the experimental group compared to the control group (p < .05). Additionally, no significant differences were found between posttest and follow-up scores, indicating that the observed improvements were stable over time. The between-group and within-group analyses showed significant interaction effects of time and group on intimacy and communication variables, confirming the effectiveness and persistence of the intervention’s impact. The findings demonstrate that the Building a Lasting Connection (BLC) program is an effective intervention for enhancing intimacy and improving communication among premarital couples.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shokofe Sadat Dashti Khavidaki (Author); Mohsen Rasouli (Corresponding Author); Jamshid Jarareh (Author)
The Effectiveness of Couple Therapy Based on Reality Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy on Sexual Intimacy in Betrayed Couples
The present study aimed to determine the difference in the effectiveness of couple therapy based on reality therapy and emotion-focused therapy on sexual intimacy in betrayed couples across three stages: pre-test, post-test, and follow-up. This applied study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test–post-test and a control group. The statistical population included all couples who had experienced marital infidelity and referred to counseling centers in Sari City in 2023. From this population, 64 participants were selected through convenience sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (22 participants in the reality therapy group, 22 participants in the emotion-focused therapy group, and 20 participants in the control group). Data were collected using the Sexual Intimacy Questionnaire developed by Bagarozi (2001) in three stages: pre-test, post-test, and follow-up. During the post-test stage, one couple from the reality therapy group and one couple from the emotion-focused therapy group withdrew, leaving data from 60 participants for analysis. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) via the SPSS-20 statistical software. The results revealed a significant difference between the effectiveness of reality therapy-based couple therapy and emotion-focused couple therapy on sexual intimacy among betrayed couples across the three stages. Both approaches were more effective than the control group; however, emotion-focused couple therapy demonstrated the greatest impact and durability in improving sexual intimacy. Furthermore, significant changes from pre-test to post-test indicated the effectiveness of the interventions, while the sustained changes from post-test to follow-up reflected the relative stability of the results, particularly in the emotion-focused therapy group.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fahimeh Akbari , Masoumeh Azmoodeh, Seyed Davoud Hoseini Nasab (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Short-Term Psychodynamic Therapy and Mentalization-Based Therapy on Rejection Sensitivity in Individuals with Borderline Personality Structure
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of short-term psychodynamic therapy (STPT) and mentalization-based therapy (MBT) in reducing rejection sensitivity among individuals with borderline personality structure. The research utilized an applied, semi-experimental design with a pre-test, post-test, control group, and a two-month follow-up. The study population comprised individuals diagnosed with borderline personality structure who attended psychotherapy clinics in western Tehran during the second half of 2024. A total of 45 participants meeting the inclusion criteria were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned into three groups of fifteen after matching for age and gender. The two experimental groups received nine 90-minute sessions of STPT or MBT, while the control group received no intervention during the study period. The Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire (Downey & Feldman, 1996) was administered at three stages—pre-test, post-test, and follow-up. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), repeated-measures ANOVA, and Bonferroni post hoc tests. The results showed a significant main effect of time and a significant time × group interaction on rejection sensitivity (p < 0.001), confirming that both STPT and MBT led to meaningful reductions in rejection sensitivity over time. Post hoc comparisons indicated that both intervention groups had significantly lower post-test and follow-up scores compared to the control group (p < 0.001), while no significant difference was found between the two treatment groups (p > 0.05). These therapeutic effects remained stable during the follow-up period, indicating sustained improvement. The comparable efficacy of the two approaches suggests that both emotional processing through psychodynamic mechanisms and reflective functioning through mentalization play crucial roles in decreasing interpersonal vulnerability and emotional reactivity to perceived rejection.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nasibeh Majdi (Author); Mahboobe Taher (Corresponding Author); Narges Haj Aboutalebi (Author)
Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)–Based Intervention on Job Burnout and Quality of Care among Psychiatric Ward Nurses
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention in reducing job burnout among psychiatric ward nurses and improving the quality of nursing care as perceived by patients. A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design with a control group was applied among 40 nurses working in the psychiatric ward of Farabi Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. After screening with the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), nurses with burnout scores above average were purposively selected and randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 20) and control (n = 20) groups. The intervention group participated in eight 90-minute ACT sessions based on the standardized protocol (Hayes et al., 2012). Patient-perceived quality of care was measured using the Caring Behaviors Inventory (CBI), with five patients evaluating each nurse at baseline, immediate posttest, and one-month follow-up (total n = 200). Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), paired t-tests, and effect size (Cohen’s d). ACT significantly reduced total burnout scores in the intervention group compared to controls (pretest M = 65.3 ± 8.5 to immediate posttest M = 48.7 ± 7.9; p < .001; Cohen’s d = 1.85). Emotional exhaustion showed the largest reduction (d = 2.50), followed by depersonalization (d = 2.00) and reduced personal accomplishment (p = .002; d = 0.60). In the control group, no meaningful changes occurred (p > .05). Patient-reported care quality improved significantly in all dimensions in the intervention group, including technical skill, communication, empathy, and responsiveness (p < .001; d ranging from 1.65 to 1.90), with improvements sustained at one-month follow-up. Group-based ACT effectively alleviates burnout and enhances patient-perceived care quality among psychiatric nurses. This approach is practical, sustainable, and beneficial for improving both staff well-being and service delivery in mental health settings.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fariba Khakzar (Corresponding Author); Maryam Faghih (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Impact of Job Flexibility, Workload, and Self-Efficacy on Work–Life Balance: The Mediating Role of Technology Effectiveness and Organizational Support, and the Moderating Role of Leadership Style among Remote Knowledge Workers
The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of job flexibility, workload, and individual self-efficacy on work–life balance, considering the mediating role of technology effectiveness and organizational support, as well as the moderating role of leadership style among remote knowledge workers. This research is applied in nature and adopts a descriptive–correlational method. The statistical population consisted of 196 remote employees working in startup companies in Tehran. Using convenience sampling and G*Power software, a sample size of 111 was determined. Data were collected through a questionnaire, and path analysis was conducted using PLS version 3 software. The results indicated that organizational support mediates the relationship between workload and work–life balance (R²=0.542, p=0.000), as well as between individual self-efficacy and work–life balance (R²=0.582, p=0.000). Furthermore, technology effectiveness mediates the relationships between job flexibility (R²=0.698), workload (R²=0.745), and self-efficacy (R²=0.685) with work–life balance (all with p=0.000). The moderating role of leadership style was also confirmed (R²=0.639, p=0.000). Based on the findings, it is recommended that training programs be designed and implemented to enhance self-efficacy and increase job flexibility for remote employees.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mansour Ghalbi (Author); Alireza Zolfaghari (Corresponding Author); Zabih Pirani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Relationship Between Passion for Life and Passion and Indifference Toward Sexual Relations in Married Students
This study aimed to examine the relationship between passion for life and both passion and indifference toward sexual relations among married students. The research employed a descriptive-correlational design. The study population consisted of all married students enrolled in the Faculty of Engineering at the Islamic Azad University, Sari Branch, during the 2023–2024 academic year. A sample of 98 married students was selected through convenient (non-random) sampling. Data were collected using the Emotional Orientation to Sexual Relations Questionnaire, which measures sexual fear, passion, and indifference, and the Passion for Life Questionnaire. Both instruments have demonstrated high internal consistency reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.97 and 0.98, respectively. Data were analyzed using Spearman’s non-parametric correlation test in SPSS version 26. The analysis revealed significant positive correlations between passion for life and both passion toward sexual relations (r = 0.33, p < .05) and indifference toward sexual relations (r = 0.36, p < .05). These results indicate that individuals reporting greater passion for life also tend to show stronger emotional engagement, but at the same time may experience ambivalent or indifferent sexual orientations. Gender differences were observed, with men generally reporting slightly higher levels of passion for life compared to women, though the correlations were consistent across genders. The findings suggest a complex interplay between general life enthusiasm and emotional approaches to sexual relationships. This study highlights the significant associations between passion for life and the emotional orientation toward sexual relations in married students. Understanding these links can inform psychological and marital counseling interventions aimed at enhancing both life engagement and sexual well-being. The results emphasize the importance of considering overall vitality and passion when addressing sexual relationship dynamics in couples.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fatemeh Hana Mohammadi (Corresponding Author); Bahram Mirzaian (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Adherence to Treatment and Quality of Life in Hemodialysis Patients
The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on treatment adherence and quality of life in hemodialysis patients. This research employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test–post-test and a control group. The statistical population consisted of all hemodialysis patients who attended the dialysis center, from whom 30 individuals were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Research instruments included standardized questionnaires assessing treatment adherence and quality of life. The experimental group received CBT in multiple sessions, while the control group did not receive any intervention. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, and the results indicated that CBT significantly improved treatment adherence and enhanced quality of life among hemodialysis patients. These findings suggest that CBT can serve as an effective psychological intervention for improving both medical and psychosocial outcomes in this population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ali Ghaderi Dehpahni (Author); Lida Leilabadi (Corresponding Author); Mehrdad Sabet (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Presenting a Structural Model of Prolonged Grief Based on Attachment Styles with the Mediating Role of Cognitive Flexibility in Survivors of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The aim of this study was to examine a structural model of prolonged grief disorder based on attachment styles, considering the mediating role of cognitive flexibility, among individuals who lost first-degree relatives during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research employed a correlational design using structural equation modeling. The study population consisted of bereaved survivors in Alborz Province who had lost a first-degree family member due to COVID-19. A total of 420 individuals participated through convenience sampling using online questionnaires, of which 361 valid responses were analyzed. Data were collected between June and December 2024. Instruments included the Prolonged Grief Disorder-13-Revised scale (PG-13-R), the Revised Adult Attachment Scale (RAAS), and the Cognitive Flexibility Inventory (CFI). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and SEM were used for data analysis. Results showed that anxious and avoidant attachment styles were positively associated with prolonged grief, while secure attachment negatively predicted grief symptoms. Cognitive flexibility demonstrated a significant protective role, negatively predicting prolonged grief. Regression analysis indicated that components of cognitive flexibility (perception of alternatives, perceived controllability, and justification of behavior) accounted for 51% of the variance in grief. Attachment styles together explained 33% of the variance in grief outcomes. Structural equation modeling confirmed the adequacy of the final model with acceptable fit indices (χ²/df = 2.34, CFI = 0.94, TLI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.059, SRMR = 0.047). Bootstrap analysis further supported the significant mediating role of cognitive flexibility in the relationships between attachment styles and prolonged grief. The study highlights that insecure attachment styles increase vulnerability to prolonged grief, whereas secure attachment and cognitive flexibility serve as protective factors. Cognitive flexibility functions as a mediator, offering a promising target for interventions aimed at reducing prolonged grief among COVID-19 bereaved survivors.
Copyright (c) 2025 Parvaneh Nikkhah (Author); Beheshteh Niusha (Corresponding Author); Elaheh Haghighat-Manesh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Paradoxical Therapy in Couple and Family Therapy: Mechanisms of Change and Implications
This study aimed to explore the mechanisms of change and clinical implications of the Paradoxical Therapy or Paradoxical Timetable Prescription within the context of couple and family therapy. A qualitative research design was employed using conventional content analysis of 12 high-quality sources selected through the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) method. The sources included empirical studies, clinical case reports, and theoretical contributions published in both Persian and English. Nvivo 14 software was used to facilitate data coding and thematic synthesis. An inductive analytic approach was used to identify emergent themes related to how Paradoxical Timetable Therapy functions as an intervention within relational systems, particularly among couples and families. The analysis produced 134 open codes, later refined into 23 focused categories and ultimately organized into five overarching themes: (1) restoration of volitional control, (2) emotional regulation and deflation, (3) disruption of the symptom reinforcement loop, (4) systemic pattern recalibration, and (5) therapeutic resistance bypass. The mechanisms of treatment and change in the paradoxical timetable were: Volitional Control Restoration, Emotional Deflation through Structured Permission, Reinforcement Loop Interruption, Systemic Role Reframing, Resistance Bypass via Paradoxical Framing, Artificialization, Changing the meaning of Symptom, Ego-Ego strength in system, Strengthening interaction, Balance in the self-other cycle. These mechanisms collectively demonstrated how PTC (Paradox+Timetable=Cure) restructures relational dynamics by embedding paradoxical behavior within scheduled time frames. The findings indicate that Paradoxical Timetable Prescription not only reduces symptom intensity but also fosters meta-awareness, reflective engagement, and systemic flexibility across couples and family members. The technique’s non-confrontational and humor-enabled format was particularly effective in reducing emotional escalation and preserving therapeutic alliance. Paradoxical Timetable Therapy emerges as a strategically paradoxical and relationally adaptive intervention that addresses entrenched emotional, behavioral, and systemic patterns in couple and family contexts. Its unique combination of structured permission and symptom scheduling enables both emotional containment and volitional reactivation, making it especially useful for high-conflict or resistant relational systems. The study highlights Paradoxical therapy's theoretical coherence, practical versatility, and potential for integration into broader systemic therapeutic protocols.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Hassan Asayesh, Kamdin Parsakia (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Designing a Model of Suicidal Beliefs Based on Emotional Expressivity with the Mediating Role of Fear of Negative Evaluation in Individuals with Gender Dysphoria
Individuals with gender dysphoria report higher levels of harmful thoughts and beliefs compared to the general population. This highlights the importance of identifying factors that increase this group’s vulnerability to suicidal thoughts and beliefs. The present study aimed to investigate the mediating effect of fear of negative evaluation in the relationship between emotional expressivity and suicidal beliefs in individuals with gender dysphoria. This study employed a correlational design and structural equation modeling. The study population consisted of all men and women with gender dysphoria in Tehran from March to September 2024. Of these, 267 individuals were selected as the sample using convenience sampling and based on the research criteria. Data collection instruments included the Beck Suicide Ideation Scale (Beck et al., 1988), the Emotional Expressivity Questionnaire (King & Emmons, 1990), and the Fear of Negative Evaluation Scale (Leary, 1983). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and AMOS software through structural equation modeling. The results showed that the direct effect of emotional expressivity on suicidal beliefs and fear of negative evaluation was significantly negative (p < .001). The direct path from fear of negative evaluation to suicidal beliefs was significantly positive (p < .001). Examination of the indirect coefficients indicated that fear of negative evaluation played a mediating role in the relationship between emotional expressivity and suicidal beliefs (p < .001). Overall, the findings of this study indicate that emotional expressivity, through the mediating role of fear of negative evaluation, affects suicidal beliefs in individuals with gender dysphoria.
Copyright (c) 2025 Behnush Nikkhah (Author); Mohammad Mehdi Jahangiri (Corresponding Author); Davood Taghvaei (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy and Schema Therapy on Cognitive Emotion Regulation and Experiential Avoidance in Female Patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder
The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Schema Therapy on cognitive emotion regulation and experiential avoidance in female patients diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Based on its objective, this study is applied in nature, and in terms of data collection, it was conducted cross-sectionally using a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group and a three-month follow-up assessment. The statistical population consisted of women aged 20–45 with Generalized Anxiety Disorder who referred to counseling and psychological services centers in Tehran between June 2024 and October 2024. Data were collected using the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ-P) and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–II (AAQ-II), administered during the pretest, posttest, and follow-up phases to the sample group. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (mixed repeated-measures analysis) were used for data analysis. The findings indicated significant differences between the experimental and control groups in both treatment methods, and these differences remained stable at follow-up (p < .05). However, when comparing the effectiveness of the two therapeutic approaches, the results showed that Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy was more effective than Schema Therapy. Overall, the results suggest that both Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy and Schema Therapy can help reduce cognitive problems in individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and it may even be argued that ISTDP is more effective in reducing these cognitive difficulties. Given that one of the inclusion criteria in this study was the absence of pharmacotherapy, it is recommended that future studies combine medication with these two treatments to obtain more comprehensive results.
Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy
Copyright (c) 2025 Abolfazl Dehpour (Author); Shaban Haydari (Corresponding Author); Bahram Mirzaian (Author)
Examining the Effectiveness of Metacognitive Therapy on Self-Disclosure and Self-Restraint in Single Women Unwilling to Marry
The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of metacognitive therapy on self-disclosure and self-restraint in single women unwilling to marry. The research method was quasi-experimental, employing a pre-test–post-test and follow-up design with a control group. The statistical population consisted of all female students at Islamic Azad Universities in Isfahan during the 2022–2023 academic year. Participants were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 30 individuals were selected through purposive sampling and were randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups (15 participants in each group). Both groups completed the pre-test, after which the experimental group received metacognitive therapy over the course of eight intervention sessions, whereas the control group received no intervention. Data were collected using the 24-item Emotional Self-Disclosure Questionnaire by Snell et al. (1988), the 30-item Self-Restraint Questionnaire by Weinberger and Schwartz (1990), and the Marriage Inclination Scale by Heydari et al. (2004). Data analysis was conducted using repeated measures analysis of variance in SPSS version 23. The findings indicated that metacognitive therapy led to increased self-disclosure and self-restraint in single women unwilling to marry, and the therapeutic effects persisted at the follow-up stage (F = 9.95, p < .01). Based on the present findings, metacognitive therapy can be utilized to enhance self-disclosure and self-restraint in single women unwilling to marry.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fahimeh Sistani (Author); Felor Khayatan (Corresponding Author); Zahra Yousefi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy and Integrative Couple Therapy on Dysfunctional Beliefs in Infertile Couples
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment–based Couple Therapy (ACT-CT) and Integrative Couple Therapy (IBCT) in reducing dysfunctional beliefs among infertile couples. This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest–posttest design with a control group and a three-month follow-up. The statistical population included infertile couples who were referred to the infertility center of Karaj University of Medical Sciences in 2023 and met the diagnostic criteria for infertility. Using purposive sampling, 45 couples were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly assigned into three groups: ACT-CT (n = 15), IBCT (n = 15), and control (n = 15). The Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire (Eidelson & Epstein, 1981) was administered at pretest, posttest, and follow-up. The ACT-CT and IBCT groups received twelve 90-minute sessions over three months, while the control group received no intervention. Due to attrition, the final sample consisted of 14 ACT-CT couples, 13 IBCT couples, and 15 control couples. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA and multivariate tests. Results showed significant time, group, and group × time interaction effects for all components of dysfunctional beliefs (p < .05). Comparative analyses indicated that ACT-CT produced significantly greater reductions than IBCT in beliefs about the destructiveness of conflict (p = .030), partner unchangeability (p = .019), and total dysfunctional belief scores (p = .001). Bonferroni post-hoc tests confirmed significant improvements from pretest to posttest and follow-up in both intervention groups, with no meaningful changes in the control group. Both ACT-CT and IBCT effectively reduced dysfunctional beliefs in infertile couples; however, ACT-CT demonstrated superior effectiveness in modifying key maladaptive cognitive components.
Acceptance and Commitment Couple Therapy
Copyright (c) 2025 Samaneh Haji Abbasi (Author); Majid Saffarinia (Corresponding Author); Ali Mohammad Rezaie (Author)
The Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment-Based Training on Reducing Occupational Stress and its Components among Administrative Employees
This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment-based training on reducing occupational stress and its components among administrative employees of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. The research employed an applied, quantitative, semi-experimental design with a pre-test–post-test control group and a two-month follow-up. The statistical population comprised all administrative employees of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2024, from which 66 participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to experimental (n = 33) and control (n = 33) groups. The experimental group received eight sessions of acceptance and commitment-based training based on Steven Hayes’ protocol, while the control group received no psychological intervention during the study period. Data were collected using the Occupational Stress Questionnaire developed by Turnic and Spielberger (1991), whose validity and reliability had been previously confirmed (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.87). Data analysis was conducted using univariate and multivariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA, MANCOVA) in SPSS 28, after verifying parametric assumptions. The results revealed that, after controlling for pre-test scores, the experimental group showed significantly lower post-test mean scores compared to the control group in total occupational stress (F = 99.30, p < 0.001, η² = 0.623) and in several subcomponents, including task performance (F = 38.55, p < 0.001, η² = 0.421), participation and decision-making (F = 14.99, p < 0.001, η² = 0.220), responsibility (F = 74.22, p < 0.001, η² = 0.583), support (F = 18.11, p < 0.001, η² = 0.255), and relationships (F = 11.89, p = 0.001, η² = 0.183). No significant differences were observed for work environment, competition, or promotion/reward. These effects persisted at follow-up, indicating sustained intervention benefits. Acceptance and commitment-based training effectively reduced occupational stress and improved key stress-related components in administrative healthcare employees, with effects maintained over two months.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maryam Parsaei (Author); Ali Naseri (Corresponding Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Investigating the Effect of Occupational Well-Being on Job Boredom among Iraqi Physical Education Teachers: The Mediating Role of Motivational Beliefs
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of occupational well-being on job boredom among physical education teachers in Iraq, with the mediating role of motivational beliefs. This research is descriptive-correlational in nature and applied in purpose. The statistical population consisted of all physical education teachers in Iraq, totaling 25,642 individuals. Given the geographical dispersion of physical education teachers across the country, a sample of 384 teachers was selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling method. Data collection tools included the Occupational Well-Being Questionnaire by Salanova et al. (2015), the Job Boredom Questionnaire by Falman et al. (2013), and the Motivational Beliefs Questionnaire by Wang, Khoo, and Su (2010). Face and content validity of the questionnaires were confirmed by the academic supervisor, and their reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, yielding coefficients of 0.95, 0.92, and 0.91 for occupational well-being, job boredom, and motivational beliefs, respectively. Data were analyzed using correlation coefficients, multiple regression analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM). All statistical analyses were conducted using PLS and SPSS software. The findings indicated that occupational well-being significantly affects the motivational beliefs of Iraqi physical education teachers, explaining 26.01% of the variance in motivational beliefs. Furthermore, motivational beliefs had a significant negative effect on job boredom, accounting for 18.31% of its variance. Additionally, occupational well-being showed a significant negative impact on job boredom, explaining 12.04% of the variance in job boredom.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mamoon Hamid Hadi (Author); Mohammad Nasiri (Corresponding Author); Maher Abdulhamza Hardan Al-Wani, Davood Nasr Esfahani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effectiveness of Virtual Reality on Theory of Mind in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
The present study was conducted with the aim of examining the effectiveness of virtual reality on theory of mind in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The research design was quasi-experimental with a pretest–posttest structure and a control group. The statistical population consisted of all children with ASD in the city of Arak in 2025. The sample included 30 children aged 7 to 12 years diagnosed with ASD, who were purposively selected through clinical file review and diagnostic confirmation by a specialist in neurodevelopmental disorders or a child psychiatrist. The children were then randomly assigned to two groups of 15: experimental and control. First, theory of mind in both groups was assessed using the Stierman Performance Test (pretest). The experimental group then received a virtual reality intervention for 15 sessions, each lasting 35 minutes, delivered twice per week. After completion of the intervention, theory of mind in both groups was reassessed using the Stierman Performance Test (posttest), followed by a two-month follow-up assessment to evaluate treatment stability. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance with both between-group and within-group factors. The findings indicated a statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups in theory of mind (p < .05). The results demonstrated that virtual reality is effective in improving theory of mind in children with ASD.
Copyright (c) 2025 Davood Keshvari Hamid (Author); Majid Ebrahmipour (Corresponding Author); Samira Vakili (Author)
Effectiveness of Self-Regulation–Based Couple Therapy on Marital Adjustment and Positive Thinking Among Married Employees in Healthcare Centers
This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of self-regulation–based couple therapy on marital adjustment and positive thinking among married employees working in healthcare centers in Sari. This quasi-experimental study used a pretest–posttest design with a control group. The statistical population included all married employees of healthcare centers in Sari during the fall of 2021, from which 30 individuals were selected through cluster sampling and assigned to experimental (n = 15) and control (n = 15) groups. Data were collected using the Spanier Marital Adjustment Scale (1976) and the Ingram & Wisnicki Positive Thinking Questionnaire (1998). The experimental group received nine 90-minute sessions of self-regulation–based couple therapy, whereas the control group received no intervention. After the intervention, both groups completed the posttest. Data analysis was conducted using univariate and multivariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA and MANCOVA) in SPSS-22. Results showed a significant effect of the intervention on marital adjustment (F = 85.72, p < .001, η² = .76) and positive thinking (F = 87.93, p < .001, η² = .77). Significant improvements were also found in marital adjustment subcomponents, including dyadic satisfaction (F = 23.04, p < .001, η² = .46), dyadic cohesion (F = 48.63, p < .001, η² = .64), dyadic consensus (F = 19.78, p < .001, η² = .42), and expression of affection (F = 55.58, p < .001, η² = .67). Statistical power across all analyses ranged from .99 to 1.00, confirming the robustness of the findings. Self-regulation–based couple therapy significantly enhances marital adjustment, positive thinking, and key relational dimensions, demonstrating its effectiveness as a comprehensive therapeutic approach for improving marital functioning.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohadeseh Olyanasab (Author); Fatemeh Soghra Sina (Corresponding Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Couple Therapy on Emotion Regulation in Couples with Marital Burnout
The present study was conducted to determine the difference in the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Couple Therapy on emotion regulation in couples experiencing marital burnout. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest structure and a control group. The statistical population consisted of all couples aged 20–40 years who sought counseling and psychotherapy services with complaints of marital burnout at counseling and psychological treatment centers across Tehran in 2023. A purposive sampling method was used to select the participants. Forty-five couples were selected through purposive sampling and were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (15 couples each group). After completing the research procedures and based on the exclusion criteria, one couple from the Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy group was removed, and the data of 14 couples were analyzed. In addition, one couple from the Cognitive-Behavioral Couple Therapy group was excluded due to absence from more than two sessions, and the data of 14 couples were analyzed, while all 15 couples in the control group participated in all stages. Data analysis was performed using repeated-measures analysis of variance. The results indicated that the difference between the effects of the two couple-therapy approaches—Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Couple Therapy—on the emotion-regulation strategies of reappraisal (p = .036) and suppression (p = .045) was statistically significant. Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy, compared with Cognitive-Behavioral Couple Therapy, resulted in increased use of the reappraisal strategy and decreased use of the suppression strategy in emotion regulation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Azin Haji Abbasi (Author); Fatemehsoghra Karbalai Herofteh (Corresponding Author); Gholamreza Sanagouye Moharer (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment-Based Parenting and Schema-Based Parenting on Competence and Self-Control in Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder
This study was conducted with the aim of comparing the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment-based parenting and schema-based parenting on competence and self-control in children with oppositional defiant disorder. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with three phases: pretest, posttest, and follow-up, along with a control group. The statistical population consisted of all mothers and their children who visited three child counseling and psychotherapy centers in Isfahan during Autumn 2024, from whom 60 mother–child pairs were selected through convenience sampling and assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (20 participants per group). The Competence Questionnaire (Merrell et al., 2011) and the Self-Control Questionnaire (Humphrey, 1982) were used to measure the dependent variables across the three phases. The acceptance and commitment-based parenting group and the schema-based parenting group each received training separately across nine sessions of 75 to 95 minutes, while the control group received no training. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests via SPSS version 26. The results showed a significant difference in competence and self-control between the acceptance and commitment-based parenting group and the schema-based parenting group compared to the control group (p < .05). When comparing the two parenting approaches, no significant difference was found in competence (p > .05); however, regarding self-control, acceptance and commitment-based parenting demonstrated greater effectiveness than schema-based parenting (p < .05). Based on the findings, acceptance and commitment-based parenting and schema-based parenting can be used to enhance competence and self-control in children with oppositional defiant disorder.
acceptance and commitment-based parenting
children with oppositional defiant disorder
Copyright (c) 2025 Fatemeh Khaghani (Author); Mohsen Golparvar (Corresponding Author); Zahra Yousefi (Author)
Modeling the Propensity for Extramarital Relationships Based on Narcissism and Communication Skills with the Mediating Role of Marital Burnout
This study aimed to propose a predictive model of the propensity for marital infidelity based on the roles of narcissism and communication skills as predictor variables, and marital burnout as a mediating variable. The significance of this research lies in identifying psychological factors influencing marital infidelity, which is one of the major threats to family stability and the mental health of couples. The research method was descriptive-correlational, utilizing structural equation modeling. The statistical population included married women residing in Shahriar County who had a minimum of five years of shared marital life. Among them, 240 participants were selected through multi-stage cluster sampling. Data were collected using validated psychological questionnaires and analyzed accordingly. The results revealed that narcissism and deficiencies in life skills significantly increased the propensity for marital infidelity. Moreover, marital burnout played a significant mediating role in the relationship between the predictor variables and the tendency toward infidelity. Specifically, narcissism and inadequate communication skills were shown to elevate the risk of infidelity through an increase in marital burnout. These findings can contribute to the development of preventive and therapeutic interventions in the field of family health.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maryam Shahrabadi (Author); Reza Khakpour (Corresponding Author); Simindokht Rezakhani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0