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)
The effect of Organizational Vitality on Organizational Reputation of Employees of Selected Martial Arts Federations with the Mediating Role of Resilience
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of organizational vitality on organizational reputation of employees of selected martial arts federations with the mediating role of resilience. The present study is a descriptive correlational study in which data were collected in the field through a questionnaire and by the field method. The statistical population of the study included all employees of the martial arts federations, judo, wushu, karate and taekwondo, totaling 337 people, of whom 175 were selected as a statistical sample by relative stratified random sampling. To collect data, the organizational vitality questionnaire of Kruloff (2007), organizational reputation of Fombran and Venriel (2003) and Connor and Davidson resilience were used. To analyze the data, the correlation coefficient, multiple regression test and structural equation analysis were used. All calculations were performed using PLS and SPSS software. The results showed that organizational vitality has an effect on organizational reputation and resilience in employees of selected martial arts federations, and 27.98% of the changes in organizational reputation and 25% of the changes in resilience are explained by organizational vitality. Also, resilience has an effect on organizational reputation in employees of selected martial arts federations, and 8.76% of organizational reputation changes are explained by resilience. Also, the results of the Sobel test showed that resilience plays a mediating role in the relationship between organizational vitality and organizational reputation in employees of selected martial arts federations. Therefore, considering the importance of the role of organizational vitality and resilience in promoting the organizational reputation of employees of martial arts federations, it is suggested that managers and officials of these federations design and implement regular and targeted programs to increase vitality in the workplace.
Occupational and Organizational Counseling
Copyright (c) 2025 Ali Seifi (Author); Mohammad Nasiri (Corresponding Author); Masoud Imanzadeh, Mehrdad Moharramzadeh (Author)
The Relationship Between Anger Management and Integrative Self-Knowledge with the Mediating Role of Self-Compassion in Nurses
The aim of the present study was to propose a causal model of anger management based on integrative self-knowledge with the mediating role of self-compassion in nurses. The present research employed a descriptive (correlational) design using structural equation modeling. The statistical population consisted of all nurses working in the city of Qom, totaling at least 3,000 individuals. The sample included 200 nurses who were selected through purposive sampling based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The research sample responded to the Spielberger Anger Questionnaire (Spielberger, 2003), the Integrative Self-Knowledge Scale developed by Ghorbani et al. (2008), and the Self-Compassion Scale by Neff (2003). Pearson correlation analysis, regression analysis, and structural equation modeling were used. The results indicated that integrative self-knowledge had a positive and significant effect on anger management among nurses, accounting for 31 percent of the variance in anger management through a direct and significant path (P ≤ .05). Self-compassion demonstrated a positive and significant effect on the relationship between anger management and integrative self-knowledge and played a significant mediating role between anger management and mindfulness (P ≤ .05). Based on the results, it can be concluded that anger management in nurses—given their direct involvement with patients’ lives—is a critical and vital issue. By emphasizing factors such as self-compassion and integrative self-knowledge, it is possible to improve anger management in nurses.
Copyright (c) 2025 Niloofar Alimohammadi (Author); Sagha Afrakhteh (Corresponding Author); Ferrshteh Afkari (Author)
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.
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
Comparison of Difficulty in Emotion Regulation, Emotional Literacy, and Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes in Married Female Students with Emotional Divorce Experience and Other Married Female Students
Emotional divorce is a condition in which spouses, despite living together, experience no emotional exchange or feelings toward each other. This phenomenon is considered one of the fundamental causes of social and familial dysfunctions. The present study aimed to examine and compare difficulty in emotion regulation, emotional literacy, and sexual knowledge and attitudes among married female students who have experienced emotional divorce and other married female students. This research employed a causal–comparative design. The statistical population included all married students of Islamic Azad University, Lahijan Branch, during the 2024–2025 academic year. The population size was 8,543 individuals. The sample consisted of 90 students with emotional divorce experience and 90 students without such experience, selected through convenience sampling. The instruments used included the Gottman Emotional Divorce Questionnaire (2008), the Iranian Family Psychological Functioning Scale (2012), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale by Gratz (2004), and the Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale by Farjina et al. (2014). Data were analyzed at two levels: descriptive statistics (dispersion indices) and inferential statistics (univariate and multivariate analysis of variance) using SPSS version 26. The results indicated that students with emotional divorce experience had greater difficulty in emotion regulation and lower levels of emotional literacy as well as sexual knowledge and attitudes (p < .05). Difficulty in emotion regulation and deficiencies in emotional literacy and sexual knowledge are significant contributing factors to emotional divorce. Providing comprehensive educational and psychological interventions focused on emotion regulation, emotional literacy, and sexual education can improve marital relationship quality and reduce the consequences of emotional divorce.
Copyright (c) 2025 Saba Shirinpour (Corresponding Author); Zeinab Amini , Asal Hemati (Author)
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
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy on Heart Rate in Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases
The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapy and emotion-focused therapy on reducing heart rate among patients with cardiovascular diseases. This quasi-experimental study included two experimental groups and one control group, selected from patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease who attended a specialized cardiology clinic in Rasht during the first quarter of 2025. Sixty eligible participants aged 45–70 were recruited through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to a mindfulness-based therapy group, an emotion-focused therapy group, or a control group. All groups completed a pretest assessment of heart rate, after which the experimental groups received nine sessions of either mindfulness-based or emotion-focused therapeutic intervention, while the control group attended a single non-therapeutic educational session for ethical purposes. Heart rate was measured objectively at pretest and posttest using a pulse oximeter. Inclusion and exclusion criteria ensured medical stability and the ability to participate consistently in treatment sessions. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni and Tukey post-hoc tests through SPSS version 26. Results indicated a significant main effect of time on heart rate (F = 28.45, p < 0.001, η = 0.33), as well as a significant group effect (F = 7.12, p = 0.010, η = 0.11) and a significant time × group interaction (F = 5.34, p = 0.025, η = 0.09). Bonferroni post-hoc tests showed significant heart rate reductions in the mindfulness-based group (MD = 8.00, p < 0.001) and the emotion-focused group (MD = 13.00, p < 0.001), with no significant change in control groups. Tukey tests confirmed that emotion-focused therapy produced significantly greater posttest reductions than both its control group (MD = −8.00, p = 0.002) and the mindfulness-based group (MD = 6.00, p = 0.017). Both mindfulness-based and emotion-focused therapies effectively reduced heart rate in cardiac patients, with emotion-focused therapy demonstrating superior physiological benefits and stronger autonomic regulation effects compared to mindfulness-based therapy.
Mindfulness-based therapy; Emotion-focused therapy; Heart rate; Cardiovascular disease; Psychological intervention; Autonomic regulation
Copyright (c) 2025 Maryam Siavash Abkenar (Author); Mohammad Reza Seirafi (Corresponding Author); Mahtab Moraveji, Mehrdad Sabet (Author)
Comparison of Mentalization-Based Therapy and Attachment-Based Therapy on Sleep Quality in Individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of mentalization-based therapy and attachment-based therapy on improving sleep quality in individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. This research employed a quasi-experimental design with two experimental groups and one control group, conducted across pretest, posttest, and two-month follow-up stages. The statistical population consisted of individuals aged 18–35 with a clinical diagnosis of borderline personality disorder who had been referred to psychological centers in Mashhad in 2024. Using purposive sampling, 45 eligible participants were selected and randomly assigned to three groups: Mentalization-Based Therapy (n = 15), Attachment-Based Therapy (n = 15), and Control (n = 15). The Borderline Personality Disorder Scale (BSL-23) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used for assessment. Interventions were implemented over weekly sessions based on established therapeutic protocols. Data analysis was conducted using mixed-design ANOVA with adherence to statistical assumptions. Mauchly’s test confirmed the assumption of sphericity for sleep-related variables. Multivariate ANOVA results indicated significant differences among groups across assessment stages for sleep problems (Wilks’ Lambda = 0.176, F = 95.657, p < .001). Within-subjects tests showed a significant main effect of time (F = 185.253, p < .001), demonstrating meaningful changes in sleep problems across measurement stages. A significant interaction between time and group (F = 36.012, p < .001) revealed that improvement trajectories differed between groups. Bonferroni post-hoc comparisons showed significant reductions in sleep problems from pretest to posttest and follow-up (p < .001), with stability of outcomes over time. Between-group comparisons indicated that both mentalization-based and attachment-based therapies were significantly more effective than the control condition, while the two interventions did not differ significantly from each other.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fatemeh Shekarian Yazd (Author); Mohammadreza Safarian Toosi (Corresponding Author); Mohammadreza Seirafi (Author)
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
Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on Perceived Social Support and Resilience in Individuals with Morbid Obesity
The objective of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on perceived social support and resilience in individuals with morbid obesity. The research employed a quasi-experimental method with a pretest–posttest control group design. The statistical population consisted of individuals with morbid obesity (BMI above 40) residing in District 8 of Tehran in 2025, from which 30 individuals were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups (15 participants in each group). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy was administered to the experimental group in eight sessions, each lasting 90 minutes, while the control group received no intervention. Data were collected using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (Zimet et al., 1988) and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (Connor & Davidson, 2003). The mindfulness-based cognitive therapy protocol was delivered in eight weekly group sessions of 90 minutes each. Data analysis was performed using multivariate analysis of covariance. The findings indicated that, after controlling for the pretest effect, there was a statistically significant difference at the 0.05 level between the experimental and control groups in posttest scores of perceived social support and resilience. Therefore, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy can be considered an effective intervention for individuals with morbid obesity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sima Sharifi Nouri (Author); Morad Abdivarmazan (Corresponding Author)
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)
Comparison of The Effectiveness of Training in Effective Teaching Strategies and A Behavior Management Program on The Self-Concept of Students with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience difficulties with their families and teachers, and these weaknesses expose them to many academic problems. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of comparatively examining the effectiveness of educational strategies and behavior management programs on the self-concept of students with ADHD in Miandoroud County. The present study was a semi-experimental research with a pretest–posttest design. The statistical population consisted of all primary school students with ADHD. The Piers–Harris Children’s Self-Concept Scale (1963) was used. A sample of 45 students was selected through multi-stage cluster random sampling and assigned to three groups of 15. The first experimental group received an educational intervention on effective teaching strategies, the second group received training in behavior management, and finally all three groups completed the posttest. The group training sessions on effective teaching methods and behavior management were held over 6 weeks, 60 minutes per day. Descriptive statistics (indices of central tendency and dispersion) and mixed-design repeated-measures analysis of variance, while observing statistical assumptions, were used to test the hypotheses. The data were analyzed using SPSS-26 software. The results of this study showed that both approaches—effective teaching strategies and the behavior management program—had a significant effect on the students’ self-concept, with an eta coefficient of 0.56 (P<0.001). After follow-up, a significant difference remained between the intervention and control groups (P<0.001). The findings indicate that effective teaching strategies and behavior management programs have a significant impact on academic achievement, self-management, self-regulation, and self-concept among students with ADHD.
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Copyright (c) 2025 Mozhgan Rahmani (Author); Shaban Heydari (Corresponding Author); Seyedeh Hamideh Salim Bahrami (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)