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)
Evaluation of a Conceptual Model of the Relationships of Communication Patterns and Love Styles with Marital Burnout: The Mediating Roles of Forgiveness and Self-Worth among Married Women
The present study aimed to evaluate the fit of a conceptual model explaining the relationships of communication patterns and love styles with marital burnout, considering the mediating roles of forgiveness and self-worth among married women. The research employed a descriptive design based on correlational modeling. The statistical population consisted of all married women residing in Tehran. The sample size was determined using the formula N ≥ 50 + 8M, recommended by Tabachnick and Fidell, as well as Cochran’s formula. Accordingly, 385 married women were included in the analysis. Participants were selected through convenience sampling from five geographical areas of Tehran: north, south, east, west, and central Tehran. The data collection instruments included a demographic information form assessing age, occupation, educational attainment, and duration of marriage; the Pines Couple Burnout Measure (1996); the Communication Patterns Questionnaire developed by Christensen and Shenk (1991); Sternberg’s Triangular Love Scale (1986); the Family Forgiveness Scale developed by Pollard, Anderson, and Jennings (1998); and the Contingencies of Self-Worth Scale developed by Crocker et al. (2003). Following data collection, the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Minimum and maximum scores, means, and standard deviations were calculated in the descriptive statistics section. Pearson’s correlation analysis was used in the inferential statistics section, and structural equation modeling was conducted to assess the fit of the conceptual model. Data analyses were performed using SPSS version 25 and AMOS version 26. The hypothesized research model demonstrated an acceptable fit. Communication patterns had a significant negative effect on marital burnout, and love styles had a significant negative effect on marital burnout. Communication patterns had significant positive effects on forgiveness and self-worth, while love styles had significant positive effects on self-worth and forgiveness among married women. Furthermore, communication patterns influenced marital burnout through the joint mediating roles of forgiveness and self-worth, and love styles influenced marital burnout through these two mediators. Communication patterns also influenced marital burnout through forgiveness alone, and love styles influenced marital burnout through forgiveness alone. In addition, communication patterns influenced marital burnout through self-worth, and love styles influenced marital burnout through self-worth among married women.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hossein Charsetad (Author); Jafar Moharami (Corresponding Author); Nasrin Jaefari Kadijan (Author)
Predicting Behavioral Problems of Sixth-Grade Elementary Students Based on Digital Media Use and Parent-Child Interaction Quality with the Mediating Role of Emotion Regulation Level
This study aimed to predict behavioral problems in sixth-grade students based on digital media use and parent-child interaction quality, with the mediating role of emotion regulation. This applied research employed a descriptive-correlational design using structural equation modeling (SEM). The statistical population included all sixth-grade students in District 5 of Isfahan in the academic year 2025-2026 (N = 3419). A sample of 343 students was selected using combined stratified random-cluster sampling. Instruments included the Child Behavior Checklist, Media Use Questionnaire, Parent-Child Relationship Scale (Pianata, CPRS), and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (Gross & John, ERQ). Data were analyzed using SPSS-26 and Smart-PLS 3 via Pearson correlation and path analysis with bootstrapping. SEM results showed excellent model fit (CMIN/df = 0, GFI = 1, NFI = 1, CFI = 1, IFI = 1). Digital media use had no significant direct effect on behavioral problems (β = 0.04, T = 0.65, p = 0.514); however, it indirectly increased behavioral problems by increasing the suppression strategy (β = 0.24, p < 0.0001). Parent-child interaction quality directly increased behavioral problems (β = -0.28, T = -4.01, p < 0.0001) and indirectly through reducing suppression (β = 0.24, p < 0.0001). Moreover, parent-child interaction quality was associated with reduced behavioral problems both directly (β = -0.07, p = 0.003) and through increasing reappraisal (β = 0.13, p < 0.007). Emotion regulation acts as a key mediating mechanism. These findings emphasize the necessity of designing multi-faceted interventions to manage media consumption, improve family interactions, and teach emotion regulation skills.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maasoumeh Afzooni, Reza Abbasi Bakhtiari, Maryam Afshari, Safoura Narimani (Author)
Testing a Causal Model of Avoidant Insecure Attachment and Marital Conflict Through Self-Differentiation and Cognitive Emotion Regulation: The Moderating Role of Emotional Intelligence in Married Students
This study aimed to test a causal moderated mediation model explaining marital conflict based on avoidant insecure attachment, with self-differentiation and cognitive emotion regulation as mediators and emotional intelligence as a moderator among married university students. This descriptive-correlational study was conducted using structural equation modeling and conditional process analysis. The statistical population included married undergraduate students at Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz Branch, during the 2025–2026 academic year. A total of 720 married students, including 360 women and 360 men, were selected through multistage random sampling. Data were collected using the Adult Attachment Scale, Marital Conflict Questionnaire, Differentiation of Self Inventory–Short Form, Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire–Short Form, and Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale–Revised. Data were analyzed using SPSS, AMOS, and PROCESS Model 14. The results showed that avoidant insecure attachment had a significant positive direct effect on marital conflict in both tested models. Avoidant attachment significantly and negatively predicted self-differentiation and adaptive cognitive emotion regulation, while it significantly and positively predicted maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation. Self-differentiation and emotional intelligence had significant negative direct effects on marital conflict. Adaptive cognitive emotion regulation significantly and negatively predicted marital conflict, whereas maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation significantly and positively predicted marital conflict. The interaction between self-differentiation and emotional intelligence was significant in both models, indicating that emotional intelligence moderated the association between self-differentiation and marital conflict. The interaction between maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation and emotional intelligence was also significant, whereas the interaction involving adaptive strategies was not significant. Conditional indirect effects of avoidant attachment on marital conflict through self-differentiation and maladaptive strategies were significant across different levels of emotional intelligence.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jamshid Zadehasan (Author); Manijeh Shahni Yailagh (Corresponding Author); Masoud Shahbazi (Author)
The Effectiveness of Schema Therapy on Body Image, Suicidal Ideation, and Psychological Distress in Individuals Seeking Cosmetic Surgery: A Quasi-Experimental Study
This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of schema therapy on body image, suicidal ideation, and psychological distress among individuals applying for cosmetic surgery. This quasi-experimental study used a pretest–posttest design with a control group. The statistical population included individuals applying for cosmetic surgery who referred to Afra Counseling Center in Isfahan, Iran, in 2024. Thirty eligible participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group, with 15 participants in each group. The experimental group received schema therapy in twelve 90-minute sessions, while the control group received no intervention during the study period. Data were collected using the Body Image Concern Inventory, the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation, and the Psychological Distress Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using multivariate and univariate analysis of covariance. The results of multivariate analysis of covariance showed a significant overall effect of group on the combined dependent variables after controlling for pretest scores, Pillai’s trace = .902, F(3, 23) = 70.92, p < .001, η² = .902. The results of univariate analysis of covariance indicated significant differences between the experimental and control groups in body image concerns, F(1, 27) = 144.24, p < .001, η² = .842; suicidal ideation, F(1, 27) = 51.69, p < .001, η² = .657; and psychological distress, F(1, 27) = 150.43, p < .001, η² = .848. These findings demonstrated that schema therapy significantly reduced body image concerns, suicidal ideation, and psychological distress in the experimental group compared with the control group. Schema therapy appears to be an effective psychological intervention for improving body image and reducing suicidal ideation and psychological distress among individuals applying for cosmetic surgery. These findings support the use of schema-based interventions as part of psychological assessment and counseling programs for cosmetic surgery applicants.
Occupational and Organizational Counseling
Copyright (c) 2026 Fateme Roshanzamiri (Corresponding Author)
The Effectiveness of Schema Therapy and Mindfulness on Psychological Distress in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of schema therapy and mindfulness on psychological distress in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Mashhad in 2025. The present study employed a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design with a control group. A total of 45 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who met the inclusion criteria were selected through purposive sampling and were randomly assigned to the study groups. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (2003) was used for assessment. Schema therapy was implemented based on the model of Riso et al. (2008), and group mindfulness was conducted based on the therapeutic program developed by Teasdale, Williams, and Segal (2018). Data were analyzed using inferential statistical indices, including repeated-measures analysis of variance, multivariate analysis of covariance, and one-way analyses of covariance within the MANCOVA framework. The effectiveness of schema therapy and mindfulness on psychological distress in patients with rheumatoid arthritis was sustained (p < .05). However, no difference was observed between schema therapy and mindfulness in terms of their effectiveness. Group schema therapy and mindfulness can be used to reduce psychological distress in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and may partially alleviate the pain and suffering experienced by these patients.
Copyright (c) 2026 Saeid Shad (Author); Mehdi Ghasemi Motlagh (Corresponding Author); Abolfazal Bakhshipour (Author)
The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in Reducing Addiction Severity and Craving and Improving Emotional Regulation in Individuals with Substance Use Disorder: A Quasi-Experimental Study
The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy in reducing addiction severity and substance craving and improving emotional regulation among individuals with substance use disorder. This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest structure and a control group. The statistical population included individuals with substance use disorder who referred to addiction treatment centers in Tehran in 2025. Using convenience sampling, 40 eligible participants were selected and randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group, with 20 participants in each group. The experimental group received cognitive behavioral therapy in 10 sessions of 90 minutes, while the control group received no psychological intervention during the study period. Data were collected using the Addiction Severity Index, the Substance Craving Questionnaire, and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance. The results of ANCOVA showed that, after controlling for pretest scores, there was a statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups in addiction severity, F(1, 37) = 54.36, p < 0.001, partial η² = 0.595, substance craving, F(1, 37) = 72.22, p < 0.001, partial η² = 0.661, and emotional regulation difficulties, F(1, 37) = 63.12, p < 0.001, partial η² = 0.630. These findings indicated that CBT significantly reduced addiction severity and substance craving and improved emotional regulation in the experimental group compared with the control group. The findings suggest that cognitive behavioral therapy can be considered an effective psychological intervention for individuals with substance use disorder. By targeting maladaptive thoughts, craving-related beliefs, emotional triggers, and ineffective coping patterns, CBT may help reduce addiction-related problems and strengthen emotional regulation capacity. Therefore, integrating CBT into addiction treatment programs may improve treatment outcomes and support relapse prevention.
Copyright (c) 2026 Saleh Ghiyasi Nejad (Author); Somayeh Amiri Domari (Corresponding Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Storytelling Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Play Therapy in Improving Cognitive Emotion Regulation in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
This study aimed to determine and compare the effects of storytelling therapy and cognitive-behavioral play therapy on improving cognitive emotion regulation in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In terms of variable control, the present study was quasi-experimental and was conducted using an extended pretest–posttest–follow-up design with a control group. The statistical population included all children aged 7–10 years with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in the city of Jam during 2025–2027. A total of 36 participants were selected through purposive sampling and were randomly and equally assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. The experimental groups separately received the interventions, consisting of eight 60-minute sessions, while the control group received no intervention. Data were collected using the SNAP test and the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire developed by Garnefski et al. (children’s version). The data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures on one factor, also known as mixed-design analysis of variance, and Bonferroni post hoc tests. The results showed that both interventions led to a significant improvement in cognitive emotion regulation, including adaptive and maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies, and that there was no significant difference between the two interventions. Moreover, the intervention effects remained stable at the follow-up stage. The findings emphasize the necessity of using play-based and narrative-based interventions as complementary interventions in the treatment of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Copyright (c) 2026 Elham Torabinia (Author); Maryam Bahrami Hidaji (Corresponding Author); Adis Kraskian Mujemnari (Author)
Identifying the Components of Cognitive Decline from the Perspective of Older Adults: A Qualitative Study
The aim of this study was to identify the components of cognitive decline from the perspective of older adults: a qualitative study. In terms of purpose, this research was applied, and in terms of methodology, it was qualitative. The statistical population of the study included all older adults in Districts 1 and 3 of Tehran, among whom 17 older adults were selected as the sample through theoretical sampling. The data collection instrument was a semi-structured interview. The qualitative analysis of the interviews resulted in 20 initial codes. Based on these codes, 9 subthemes were identified, and ultimately, 9 main themes were considered as the components of cognitive decline, which formed the basis for designing the cognitive decline questionnaire in this study. For each component, 10 items were proposed. Based on the opinions of 9 experts and university professors, the total content validity score was obtained as 0.78; therefore, the designed questionnaire had appropriate validity. The reliability of the questionnaire was obtained as 85% through two stages of coding with a one-month interval.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maryam Barghi Irani (Author); Ahmad Alipour (Corresponding Author); Ziba Barghi irani , Parvaneh Qodsi (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Contextual Schema Therapy and Mode-Based Schema Therapy on Emotion Regulation in Individuals with Migraine
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of mode-based schema therapy and contextual schema therapy on emotion regulation in individuals with migraine. This study was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest–posttest control group design and a three-month follow-up phase. The statistical population included all individuals with migraine of psychological origin who referred to psychological treatment centers in Tehran in 2024. The research sample consisted of 36 participants who were selected through purposive sampling based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to three groups of 12 participants, including two experimental groups and one control group. Experimental Group A received the contextual schema therapy program (Farrell & Shaw, 2014) in eight weekly 90-minute sessions, and Experimental Group B received the mode-based schema therapy program (Rüdiger et al., 2018) in eight weekly 90-minute sessions. Data were collected using the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (Gross & John, 2003) at three stages, namely pretest, posttest, and follow-up, and were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance in SPSS version 24. The findings showed that both therapeutic approaches, compared with the control group, had a significant effect on improving emotion regulation, particularly in the component of cognitive reappraisal (p < .01). However, no significant difference was observed between the effectiveness of the two therapeutic approaches (p > .05). The therapeutic effects also remained stable at the three-month follow-up stage (p < .01). Mode-based schema therapy and contextual schema therapy are both effective and efficient approaches for improving emotion regulation in individuals with migraine and can be used as complementary interventions alongside common pharmacological treatments. The absence of a significant difference between the two approaches indicates their theoretical and technical overlap at the level of mechanisms of change and enables therapists to select the most appropriate method based on the client’s characteristics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rasool Norouzieh (Author); Mehdi Ghasemi Motlagh (Corresponding Author); Seyed Hossein Mirzaei (Author)
Predicting Fear of Emotional Intimacy Based on Childhood Trauma: The Mediating Role of Interpersonal Emotion Regulation Among Student Couples
The present study aimed to predict fear of emotional intimacy based on childhood trauma, with the mediating role of interpersonal emotion regulation among student couples. In terms of purpose, this research was applied in nature. Regarding methodology, it was a quantitative, descriptive-correlational study utilizing path analysis. For this purpose, 250 student couples from branches of the Islamic Azad University in Tehran were selected through convenience random sampling. Participants completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ; Bernstein et al., 2003), the Fear of Intimacy Scale (Descutner & Thelen, 1991), and the Interpersonal Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (IERQ; Hofmann et al., 2016). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 and AMOS through path analysis. The findings indicated that childhood trauma was a significant predictor of fear of emotional intimacy in couples’ relationships. Furthermore, interpersonal emotion regulation played a significant mediating role in the relationship between childhood trauma and fear of emotional intimacy. In other words, experiences of early-life trauma may influence individuals’ fear of emotional closeness in romantic relationships by weakening their ability to regulate emotions within interpersonal interactions. The results highlight the importance of addressing early life experiences and strengthening emotion regulation skills to improve the quality of couples’ relationships, particularly during the university years. Accordingly, counseling and therapeutic interventions focused on enhancing interpersonal emotion regulation may be effective in reducing fear of intimacy and promoting marital satisfaction.
Islamic Azad University branches in Tehran
Copyright (c) 2025 Fariba Moharrami Ghidari (Author); Maryam Asadolah Tooyserkani (Corresponding Author)
The Mediating Role of Self-Regulated Learning Strategies in the Relationship Between Academic Dishonesty and Critical Thinking Among High School Students in Hamadan
The present study aimed to examine the mediating role of self-regulated learning strategies in the relationship between academic dishonesty and critical thinking among high school students in Hamadan. The research employed a descriptive-correlational design using structural equation modeling (SEM). The statistical population consisted of high school students in Hamadan during the 2026–2027 academic year. A final sample of 324 students was selected through a multistage cluster random sampling method. Data were collected using the California Critical Thinking Skills Questionnaire (Facione & Facione, 1994), the Academic Dishonesty Questionnaire (Farnese et al., 2011), and the Self-Regulated Learning Strategies Questionnaire (Pintrich & De Groot, 1990). Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling. The proposed model demonstrated a satisfactory fit to the data. Furthermore, the findings indicated that academic dishonesty had a significant negative direct effect on critical thinking, whereas cognitive strategies, metacognitive strategies, and motivational beliefs had significant positive direct effects on critical thinking (p < .01). The results of the bootstrap test revealed that self-regulated learning strategies played a mediating role in the relationship between academic dishonesty and critical thinking (p < .01). Overall, the findings showed that academic dishonesty affected critical thinking among high school students in Hamadan both directly and indirectly through the mediating role of self-regulated learning strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ali Ghasemi (Author); Qamar Kiani (Corresponding Author); Fatemeh Nazari, Sakineh Jafari (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Self-Compassion-Focused Therapy and Stress Inoculation Training on Perceived Stress among Parents of Children with Cancer
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Self-Compassion-Focused Therapy (SCFT) and Stress Inoculation Training (SIT) on perceived stress among parents of children with cancer. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group and a two-month follow-up assessment. The statistical population consisted of parents of children with cancer who attended medical and psychological treatment centers in Tehran in 2026. Among them, 45 participants were selected through convenience sampling based on the study inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to three groups of 15 participants each (two experimental groups and one control group). Data were collected using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) developed by Cohen et al. (1983). The therapeutic interventions included the implementation of the Self-Compassion-Focused Therapy protocol based on Gilbert’s treatment program (2012) and Stress Inoculation Training based on Meichenbaum’s psychological inoculation program (Mobini, 2007). Each intervention was administered in a group format over 10 weekly sessions for the experimental groups. The control group received no intervention during the study period. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and mixed-design repeated-measures analysis of variance. The results indicated that both Self-Compassion-Focused Therapy and Stress Inoculation Training significantly reduced perceived stress among parents of children with cancer, and the therapeutic effects remained stable at the follow-up assessment (p < .05). Furthermore, the comparison of the two interventions demonstrated that Stress Inoculation Training was more effective than Self-Compassion-Focused Therapy in reducing perceived stress. The findings suggest that both therapeutic approaches can be utilized as effective psychological interventions to improve the mental health of parents of children with cancer.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shadi Salehi (Author); Afsaneh Taheri (Corresponding Author); Farah Lotfi Kashani (Author)
Structural Model of Predicting Rumination in Individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder Based on Integrative Self-Knowledge and Mentalization: The Mediating Roles of Psychological Flexibility and Distress Tolerance
The present study aimed to develop and test a structural model for predicting rumination among individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) based on integrative self-knowledge and mentalization, considering the mediating roles of psychological flexibility and distress tolerance. This applied, descriptive-correlational study was conducted among university students diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Qom, Iran, during 2025. A purposive sample of 270 participants was selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the Integrative Self-Knowledge Scale, Mentalization Scale, Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II, Distress Tolerance Scale, and Ruminative Responses Scale. Structural equation modeling and path analysis were performed using SPSS-23 and AMOS-23 to examine the direct and indirect relationships among the study variables and to evaluate the proposed structural model. The findings indicated that rumination was directly and negatively predicted by integrative self-knowledge (β = −0.265, p = .001), mentalization (β = −0.253, p = .001), distress tolerance (β = −0.297, p = .001), and psychological flexibility (β = −0.204, p = .001). Integrative self-knowledge positively predicted distress tolerance (β = 0.219, p = .001) and psychological flexibility (β = 0.176, p = .001). Similarly, mentalization positively predicted distress tolerance (β = 0.267, p = .001) and psychological flexibility (β = 0.378, p = .001). Significant indirect effects were observed for integrative self-knowledge (β = −0.101, p = .034) and mentalization (β = −0.156, p = .001) on rumination through the mediating variables. The results suggest that higher levels of integrative self-knowledge and mentalization contribute to lower levels of rumination among individuals with GAD both directly and indirectly through enhanced psychological flexibility and distress tolerance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Masoumeh Bakhtiarizadeh (Author); Seyed Mohammad Ebrahim Montazeri (Corresponding Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Interventions, Positive Thinking, and Existential Therapy on Increasing Psychological Flexibility in Female Heads of Household
The present study was conducted with the aim of comparing the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment interventions, Positive Thinking, and Existential Therapy on increasing psychological flexibility in female heads of household. This research was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest–posttest design and a control group. The statistical population of the present study included female heads of household in District 2 of Qom. Since a sample size of 15 participants per group has been recommended for experimental studies, four groups of 15 participants each (a total of 60 participants) were selected through convenience sampling from among female heads of household. The participants were randomly assigned to four groups, including three experimental groups and one control group. The experimental groups received the intended interventions, whereas the control group received no intervention during the implementation of the study. The measurement instrument used in this study was the Hope Scale developed by Charles Richard Snyder and colleagues (1991). Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software and multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). The results demonstrated that, regarding the variable of hope for life, there was a significant difference between Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Positive Thinking Therapy (F = 41.42, p < .017), as well as between Positive Thinking Therapy and Existential Therapy (F = 57.21, p < .039). However, no significant difference was observed between Existential Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (F = 82.09, p < .052). Therefore, it can be concluded that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Positive Thinking, and Existential Therapy can be utilized in the treatment programs of counseling centers to enhance psychological flexibility among female heads of household.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammad Nowzari (Author); Shokouh Navabinejad (Corresponding Author); Gholamreza Sharifirad (Author)
The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Distress Tolerance and Psychological Hardiness in Adolescents Experiencing Parental Bereavement
The present study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy on distress tolerance and psychological hardiness in adolescents experiencing parental bereavement. The research method was quasi-experimental with a pretest–posttest design and a control group. The statistical population of the present study consisted of adolescents experiencing parental bereavement who were referred to the Arsam Psychological Services and Counseling Center in the city of Tonekabon in 2026. First, the Barrett and Scott Grief Experience Questionnaire (1998) was distributed among all participants. Then, 30 individuals with moderate grief experience (scores between 68 and 102) were selected through purposive and convenience sampling methods and were randomly assigned to two groups: an experimental group of 15 participants and a control group of 15 participants. Data were collected using the Distress Tolerance Questionnaire and the Psychological Hardiness Questionnaire. Subsequently, cognitive behavioral therapy was implemented for the experimental group in 8 sessions of 90 minutes each. After the completion of the cognitive behavioral therapy sessions, posttests were administered to both the experimental and control groups. The findings indicated a significant difference between the mean pretest and posttest scores of the experimental and control groups in terms of distress tolerance and psychological hardiness. Therefore, cognitive behavioral therapy has an effect on distress tolerance and psychological hardiness in adolescents experiencing parental bereavement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Aida Mahmodi , Maryam Hasanpor Abri , Santik Vakili (Author); Eshagh SamKhaniani (Corresponding Author); Ghazal Moradi Vajargah (Author)
Design and Validation of a Trauma-Informed Curriculum Model for Enhancing Resilience and Mental Health among Students in Post-Crisis Conditions
The present study aimed to design and validate a trauma-informed curriculum model for enhancing resilience and mental health among students in post-crisis educational conditions. The study was conducted using a mixed-methods exploratory sequential design in Tehran during the 2025–2026 academic year. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 experts in curriculum planning, educational psychology, counseling, and crisis intervention selected through purposeful sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify the dimensions and components of the trauma-informed curriculum model. In the quantitative phase, the proposed model was validated among 312 educational professionals, including teachers, counselors, school administrators, and curriculum specialists selected through multistage cluster sampling. Data collection instruments included the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, the General Health Questionnaire, and a researcher-developed Trauma-Informed Curriculum Questionnaire derived from the qualitative findings. Descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics and AMOS software. The findings demonstrated that the proposed trauma-informed curriculum model possessed acceptable construct validity and strong structural fit indices (χ²/df = 2.14, RMSEA = 0.059, CFI = 0.95, GFI = 0.93). Exploratory factor analysis extracted seven dimensions including emotional safety, supportive teacher–student relationships, flexible instructional practices, crisis-sensitive evaluation, psychosocial support systems, resilience-building educational activities, and school climate responsiveness, explaining 68.47% of the total variance. Structural equation modeling revealed that psychosocial support (β = 0.45), emotional safety (β = 0.41), and supportive relationships (β = 0.37) significantly predicted student resilience. In addition, school climate responsiveness (β = 0.39), flexible instruction (β = 0.31), and crisis-sensitive evaluation (β = 0.28) significantly predicted mental health outcomes. The overall model explained 57% of the variance in resilience and 52% of the variance in mental health among students in post-crisis conditions. The findings indicate that trauma-informed curriculum design can function as an effective educational and psychosocial framework for strengthening resilience and promoting mental health among students exposed to crises and traumatic experiences. The integration of emotionally supportive environments, psychosocial services, flexible pedagogical practices, and responsive school climates into curriculum structures may significantly improve students’ psychological adaptation and educational functioning during post-crisis recovery. The study highlights the necessity of incorporating trauma-informed principles into educational policy, curriculum development, teacher training, and school support systems to enhance the long-term well-being of students in increasingly crisis-prone societies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mehdi Akbarzadeh Sagay , Fatemeh Kangari, Saeedeh Allahabady, Fatemeh Riazi (Author); Nasrin Mohaddes (Corresponding Author)
Structural Modeling of the Relationships Between Academic Perfectionism and the Psychosocial Structure of the Classroom on Feelings of Academic Incompetence with the Mediating Role of Academic Self-Handicapping in Secondary School Students
The present study aimed to investigate the structural relationships between academic perfectionism and psychosocial classroom structure with feelings of academic incompetence through the mediating role of academic self-handicapping among upper secondary school students. This study employed a correlational design using structural equation modeling {SEM}. The statistical population consisted of all male and female upper secondary school students in Gorgan during the 2025–2026 academic year. Based on structural modeling criteria and the number of observed variables, a sample of 405 students was selected through multistage cluster sampling. Data were collected using the Academic Perfectionism Questionnaire, Psychosocial Classroom Structure Questionnaire, Academic Self-Handicapping Questionnaire, and the researcher-made Feelings of Academic Incompetence Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Shapiro–Wilk test, Durbin–Watson test, confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modeling, and bootstrap analysis in SPSS and AMOS software. The findings indicated that academic perfectionism had a significant direct effect on feelings of academic incompetence {β = -0.230, p < 0.01}. Psychosocial classroom structure also significantly predicted feelings of academic incompetence {β = -0.295, p < 0.001}. However, the direct effect of academic self-handicapping on feelings of academic incompetence was not significant {β = 0.015, p > 0.05}. In addition, the indirect effects of academic perfectionism and psychosocial classroom structure on feelings of academic incompetence through academic self-handicapping were not statistically significant. The results further demonstrated that although several direct structural paths were significant, the overall fit indices of the structural model did not reach acceptable thresholds. The findings suggest that both academic perfectionism and psychosocial classroom structure play important roles in shaping students’ feelings of academic incompetence.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammad Enayat Sani (Author); Shaban Haydari (Corresponding Author); Mohammad Kazem Fakhri (Author)
Design and Effectiveness of a Choice Theory Educational Package on Academic Integration among Male High School Students in District Two of Kerman City
This study was conducted to design and examine the effectiveness of a Choice Theory educational package on the academic integration of male students in the second cycle of secondary education in District Two of Kerman City. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group. The statistical population consisted of all male students in the second cycle of secondary education in District Two of Kerman City (N = 450). A multistage cluster random sampling method was used, and the sample included 60 students who were randomly assigned to an experimental group (30 participants) and a control group (30 participants). Data were collected using the Academic Integration Questionnaire developed by Terenzini and Pascarella (1980). Participants in the experimental group received the Choice Theory educational package over eight sessions, whereas the control group received no intervention. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance with SPSS software. The results indicated that the educational package developed based on Choice Theory had a significant effect on academic integration and its components at the posttest stage, and the continuity of this effect was also observed at the follow-up stage (p < .01). Therefore, the educational package developed based on Choice Theory can be considered an effective method for increasing students’ academic integration.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohsen Bonyadi (Author); Alireza Manzari Tavakoli (Corresponding Author); Zahra Zeinaddiny Meymand , Amanallah Soltani (Author)
Comparing the Effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Cognitive Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Interpersonal Forgiveness in Women Affected by Marital Infidelity
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of emotion-focused cognitive therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy on interpersonal forgiveness in women affected by marital infidelity. This applied semi-experimental study employed a pretest–posttest design with a three-month follow-up and a control group. The statistical population consisted of all women affected by marital infidelity who referred to specialized family counseling centers in Chalous, Iran, during 2025. Forty-five participants were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned into three groups: emotion-focused cognitive therapy (n=15), acceptance and commitment therapy (n=15), and control group (n=15). The first experimental group received ten 90-minute sessions of emotion-focused cognitive therapy based on Power’s protocol, while the second experimental group participated in ten 90-minute sessions of acceptance and commitment therapy based on the McKay and Lev protocol. The control group received no intervention. Data were collected using the Family Forgiveness Scale developed by Pollard et al. (1998). Inferential statistics included multivariate analysis of covariance and repeated-measures analysis of variance using SPSS-22 software. The findings demonstrated that both emotion-focused cognitive therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy significantly increased interpersonal forgiveness in comparison with the control group (p<0.01). The results of multivariate covariance analysis indicated a significant group effect on posttest interpersonal forgiveness scores with a large effect size. Bonferroni post hoc comparisons revealed that the mean scores of interpersonal forgiveness in both intervention groups were significantly higher than those of the control group at posttest and follow-up stages. Furthermore, emotion-focused cognitive therapy showed greater effectiveness than acceptance and commitment therapy in improving interpersonal forgiveness among women affected by marital infidelity. The stability of treatment effects during the follow-up stage confirmed the persistence of therapeutic outcomes over time. The results suggest that both emotion-focused cognitive therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy are effective interventions for improving interpersonal forgiveness in women affected by marital infidelity. However, emotion-focused cognitive therapy demonstrated superior effectiveness, likely due to its deeper emphasis on emotional processing, emotional awareness, and restructuring maladaptive emotional experiences. Therefore, therapists and family counselors may benefit from incorporating these approaches, particularly emotion-focused cognitive therapy, into psychological interventions designed for women experiencing emotional distress following marital infidelity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Zahra Ahangarian (Author); Taher Tizdast (Corresponding Author); Jafar Pouyamanesh (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Gestalt-Based Play Therapy and Parent-Centered Play Therapy on Academic Self-Efficacy among Female Students in the Second Cycle of Elementary School
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Gestalt-based play therapy and parent-centered play therapy on academic self-efficacy among female students in the second cycle of elementary school. The research method was quasi-experimental, using a pretest–posttest design with a control group and a two-month follow-up. The statistical population included female students in the second cycle of elementary school, aged 9 to 11 years, who were studying in public elementary schools in District 8 of Tehran during the 2024–2025 academic year. A total of 45 students were selected for two experimental groups and one control group, with 15 participants in each group, using convenience sampling, and responded to the Academic Self-Efficacy Questionnaire developed by Morgan and Jinks (1998). The results of repeated-measures analysis of variance and the Bonferroni post hoc test showed that Gestalt-based play therapy and parent-centered play therapy effectively improved academic self-efficacy among female students in the second cycle of elementary school (p ≤ .001). Gestalt-based play therapy showed a greater effect on increasing academic self-efficacy. Based on the findings, both approaches play valuable roles in supporting children’s psychological and academic development and have distinct strengths that can provide interventions tailored to specific therapeutic goals.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mahdieh Darvish (Author); Simindokht Rezakhani (Corresponding Author); Farideh Dokaneifard (Author)
The Impact of AI-Enabled Prompt Engineering Intervention on Sixth-Grade Students’ Academic Achievement, Motivation, and Engagement
The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of an AI-enabled prompt engineering intervention on sixth-grade students’ academic achievement, academic motivation, and multidimensional engagement in science learning. This study employed a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design with a non-equivalent control group. The sample consisted of 30 sixth-grade female students who were assigned to an experimental group (n = 15) and a control group (n = 15). The experimental group participated in an eight-session AI-supported science learning program in which prompt engineering techniques were used to position the AI system as a Socratic and facilitative tutor rather than a direct provider of answers. Data collection instruments included the Academic Motivation Scale (AMS), a multidimensional engagement questionnaire based on Reeve’s model, and a researcher-developed science achievement test. The intervention was implemented over four weeks with two 45-minute sessions per week. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) in SPSS at a significance level of 0.05. The ANCOVA findings demonstrated a statistically significant effect of the AI-based intervention on all dependent variables (p < .001). The intervention explained 67% of the variance in academic achievement (Partial η² = .67), 61% of the variance in academic motivation (Partial η² = .61), and 64% of the variance in total academic engagement (Partial η² = .64). The experimental group showed significantly higher posttest scores compared with the control group across all dimensions of engagement. The strongest effect was observed in agentic engagement, where students demonstrated greater proactive participation, questioning behavior, and instructional agency. Significant improvements were also observed in affective, cognitive, and behavioral engagement dimensions, indicating that AI-assisted instruction enhanced students’ emotional involvement, strategic thinking, and persistence in learning activities. The findings provide strong empirical evidence that AI-enabled prompt engineering interventions can substantially improve academic achievement, motivation, and engagement among primary school students.
Copyright (c) 2026 Aynaz Javadzadeh (Corresponding Author); Sadegh Farahmande amin, Yalda Mardaneh, Meysam Abdollahi (Author)
The Mediating Role of Marital Burnout in the Relationship Between Attachment Needs and Couples’ Tendency Toward Divorce
The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of marital burnout in the relationship between attachment needs and couples’ tendency toward divorce in the city of Shiraz. This applied study was conducted using a correlational design based on structural equation modeling. The statistical population included all married couples in Shiraz in 2025, from whom 200 participants were selected through convenience sampling. The research instruments included the Divorce Tendency Questionnaire developed by Rosebelt, Johnson, and Morrow, the Marital Burnout Questionnaire by Pines, and the Attachment Needs Questionnaire developed by Samani et al. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 and AMOS software. In the descriptive section, mean and standard deviation were used, while Pearson correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling were employed in the inferential section. The results indicated that attachment needs had a significant negative relationship with marital burnout (r = -0.524, p < 0.001) and tendency toward divorce (r = -0.474, p < 0.001). In addition, marital burnout showed a significant positive relationship with tendency toward divorce (r = 0.417, p < 0.001). The findings of the structural equation model demonstrated that the path from attachment needs to marital burnout (β = -0.748), the path from attachment needs to tendency toward divorce (β = -0.415), and the path from marital burnout to tendency toward divorce (β = 0.162) were all significant (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the indirect effect of attachment needs on tendency toward divorce through marital burnout was equal to 0.132, confirming the significant mediating role of marital burnout. The findings of the study indicated that unmet attachment needs can increase couples’ tendency toward divorce through heightened marital burnout. Therefore, paying attention to couples’ emotional and affective needs and designing interventions based on attachment-oriented and emotion-focused approaches may play an effective role in reducing marital burnout and preventing divorce.
Copyright (c) 2026 Elaheh Khorshidi (Author); Siamak Samani (Corresponding Author)
The Effectiveness of Islamic Spirituality Training on Academic Well-Being, Achievement Motivation, and Academic Affect
The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Islamic spirituality training on academic well-being, achievement motivation, and academic affect among high school students in Tehran. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pretest, posttest, and follow-up stages using a control group. The statistical population consisted of high school students in Tehran during the 2025–2026 academic year. A total of 48 students were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned into an experimental group (n = 24) and a control group (n = 24). The experimental group participated in eight weekly sessions of Islamic spirituality training, each lasting 90 minutes, while the control group received no intervention. Data collection instruments included the Academic Well-Being Questionnaire, the Hermans Achievement Motivation Questionnaire, and the Academic Affect Scale. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni post-hoc tests in SPSS-27 software. The results of repeated-measures analysis of variance indicated that Islamic spirituality training had a significant effect on academic well-being (F = 60.41, p = 0.001, η² = 0.57), achievement motivation (F = 55.92, p = 0.001, η² = 0.55), and academic affect (F = 65.12, p = 0.001, η² = 0.60). Bonferroni post-hoc comparisons demonstrated significant differences between pretest and posttest scores as well as between pretest and follow-up scores in the experimental group across all variables (p = 0.001). The findings showed that students who participated in the Islamic spirituality training program experienced increased academic well-being, stronger achievement motivation, and more positive academic affect compared to the control group, and these improvements remained relatively stable during the follow-up stage. The findings suggest that Islamic spirituality training is an effective educational and psychological intervention for improving students’ academic well-being, achievement motivation, and academic affect.
Copyright (c) 2026 Moslem Bamari , Zeynab Rashidizadeh (Author); Mohammad Elahi (Corresponding Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Relational Imagery Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on We-Ness Experience in Women Exposed to Marital Infidelity
The aim of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of relational imagery therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy on we-ness experience in women exposed to marital infidelity. This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental method with a three-stage pretest, posttest, and three-month follow-up design, including a control group. The statistical population included all women aged 25 to 45 years who referred to Sina Counseling Center in Nowshahr and had experienced marital infidelity. Among them, 45 participants were selected purposively based on the inclusion criteria and were then randomly assigned to three groups of 15 participants each: relational imagery therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and control group. The data collection instrument was the We-Ness in Couple Relationships Questionnaire (Cruz et al., 2023). Each experimental group received its respective intervention in eight 90-minute sessions, held twice a week. The posttest was administered immediately after the intervention, and the follow-up phase was conducted three months later. The data were analyzed using multivariate mixed analysis of variance. The results showed that relational imagery therapy was more effective than acceptance and commitment therapy in enhancing we-ness experience (p < .05). These findings, while explaining the importance of relational imagery-based therapeutic interventions in improving the emotional and functional indicators of women harmed by marital infidelity, emphasize the necessity of applying this approach in couple counseling services.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kiana Ghasemnejhad (Author); Seyedeh Zahra Sadati (Corresponding Author)
The Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Psychological Symptoms and Dysfunctional Attitudes in Maladjusted Couples Referred to Counseling and Psychological Services Centers
The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on psychological symptoms and dysfunctional attitudes among maladjusted couples referred to counseling and psychological services centers. The present study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group. The statistical population consisted of maladjusted couples referred to counseling centers in Tehran in 2026. A total of 32 participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 16) and a control group (n = 16). Data were collected using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) developed by Lovibond and Lovibond and the Dysfunctional Attitudes Questionnaire developed by Weissman and Beck. The experimental group received Acceptance and Commitment Therapy over 8 weeks in the form of weekly 90-minute sessions, while the control group received no intervention. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) in IBM SPSS Statistics version 27. The results of covariance analysis demonstrated that, after controlling for pretest scores, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy had a statistically significant effect on psychological symptoms among maladjusted couples (F = 21.678, p < 0.001, η² = 0.512). The findings also indicated that ACT significantly reduced dysfunctional attitudes in the experimental group compared to the control group (F = 26.378, p < 0.001, η² = 0.522). The posttest mean scores of psychological symptoms and dysfunctional attitudes in the experimental group were significantly lower than the corresponding pretest scores, whereas no significant changes were observed in the control group. The findings of the present study suggest that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is an effective intervention for reducing psychological symptoms and dysfunctional attitudes among maladjusted couples.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fatemeh Sanaei Moghadam , Fatemeh Zahra Mohammadzadeh Saraei , Mobina Arab (Author); Parastoo Ahmadi portesiyeh (Corresponding Author); Mahsa Esmaeili Esfandani (Author)
Predicting the Quality of Life of Mothers of Children with Special Needs Based on Stress-Coping Strategies and Level of Acceptance
The aim of the present study was to predict the quality of life of mothers of children with special needs based on stress-coping strategies and parental acceptance. This study was descriptive-correlational and was conducted using a cross-sectional method. The statistical population included all mothers of children with special needs, among whom 270 individuals were accessible, and 159 were selected as the research sample. The instruments used included the Quality of Life Questionnaire for Families of Children with Intellectual Disabilities, the Coping Strategies Questionnaire by Lazarus and Folkman (1988), and the Parental Acceptance Questionnaire (2002). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multivariate regression analysis. The results showed that problem-focused coping strategies and parental acceptance had a positive and significant relationship with quality of life, whereas emotion-focused coping strategies had a negative and significant relationship with quality of life. The results of the regression analysis also indicated that parental acceptance, problem-focused coping strategies, and emotion-focused coping strategies significantly predicted mothers’ quality of life, with parental acceptance being the strongest predictor of quality of life. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that strengthening psychological acceptance and teaching adaptive coping strategies can play an important role in improving the quality of life of mothers of children with special needs. Therefore, designing and implementing educational programs and psychological interventions aimed at increasing acceptance and enhancing coping skills can contribute to improving the mental health and quality of life of these mothers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fatemeh Torabi Talatapeh (Corresponding Author)
The Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Difficulties in Emotion Regulation and Distress Tolerance in Students with High Academic Stress
The present study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on difficulties in emotion regulation and distress tolerance among students with high academic stress. This was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest–posttest design and a two-month follow-up with a control group. The statistical population consisted of students at Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon Branch during the 2024–2025 academic year. After administering the Gadzella Student-Life Stress Inventory, students who obtained scores of 188 and above were identified as individuals with high academic stress. Subsequently, 30 eligible students were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to two groups: an experimental group and a control group, with 15 participants in each group. The experimental group received Acceptance and Commitment Therapy during 10 sessions of 90 minutes each, whereas the control group received no intervention during this period. Data were collected using the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale and the Distress Tolerance Scale. Data analysis was performed using the independent samples t-test, Fisher’s exact test, and two-way repeated measures analysis of variance in IBM SPSS Statistics version 26. The results indicated that the experimental and control groups did not differ significantly in terms of demographic characteristics. Furthermore, the results of the two-way repeated measures analysis of variance demonstrated that the interaction effect of group and time on difficulties in emotion regulation and distress tolerance was significant. Based on mean comparisons, scores for difficulties in emotion regulation decreased from pretest to posttest in the experimental group, while distress tolerance scores increased. These changes remained largely stable at the two-month follow-up stage, whereas no substantial changes were observed in the control group. Based on the findings of the study, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can reduce difficulties in emotion regulation and increase distress tolerance in students with high academic stress. Therefore, the use of this approach in university counseling centers may be beneficial in helping students manage negative emotions and enhance their ability to tolerate stressful academic situations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Roghayeh Mahmoud Soltani (Corresponding Author); Nahid Foroozeshfar , Fariborz Samirigi (Author)
Effectiveness of Sociodrama Intervention on Specific Phobic Fear and Involuntary Reactions in Children with a Secure Psychological Safe Haven
The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of sociodrama intervention on specific phobic fear and involuntary reactions in children with a secure psychological safe haven. This study employed a quasi-experimental method with a two-group pretest–posttest design. The statistical population consisted of all children with a secure psychological safe haven in Tehran who had referred to the Andisheh Kian Talent Identification Institute in 2025. In the present study, 24 children with a secure psychological safe haven were selected using a purposive non-random sampling method and were then randomly assigned into an experimental group (n = 12) and a control group (n = 12). The experimental group participated in ten 120-minute sociodrama intervention sessions, and ultimately, after attrition, 11 participants successfully completed the treatment process. In contrast, the control group received no intervention. It should be noted that, in order to maintain equivalence between the experimental and control groups, a number of participants equal to the attrition rate in the experimental group were randomly removed from the control group as well. In this study, the revised version of the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED) and the Children’s Anxiety Scale were used. The collected data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) and univariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). The findings indicated that there was a significant difference between the posttest mean scores of the experimental and control groups, and that the sociodrama intervention significantly improved specific phobic fear and involuntary reactions. Therefore, sociodrama intervention was effective in improving specific phobic fear and involuntary reactions in children with a secure psychological safe haven.
children with a secure psychological safe haven
Copyright (c) 2026 Mahsa Marzban (Author); Mehryar Anasseri (Corresponding Author)
Predicting Marital Conflict Based on Mindfulness, Communication Patterns, and Emotional Intelligence in Married Students
The present study aimed to predict marital conflict based on mindfulness, communication patterns, and emotional intelligence among married students. Methods and Materials: The present study employed an applied descriptive-correlational design. The statistical population consisted of all married students at Islamic Azad University during the 2024–2025 academic year. Using convenience sampling, 195 participants were initially selected, and after excluding incomplete questionnaires, data from 180 participants were analyzed. Data collection instruments included the Marital Conflicts Questionnaire developed by Barati and Sanaei (1996), the short form of the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (2006), the Communication Patterns Questionnaire developed by Christensen and Sullaway (1984), and the Schering Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (1995). Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multivariate regression analysis in SPSS. The results indicated that mindfulness (r = -0.278, p < .001), constructive mutual communication patterns (r = -0.216, p < .01), and emotional intelligence (r = -0.162, p < .05) were significantly and negatively associated with marital conflict. In contrast, demand/withdraw communication patterns (r = 0.151, p < .05) and mutual avoidance communication patterns (r = 0.155, p < .05) showed significant positive relationships with marital conflict. Furthermore, the regression analysis demonstrated that mindfulness (β = -0.166, p < .05), demand/withdraw communication pattern (β = 0.154, p < .05), constructive mutual communication pattern (β = -0.166, p < .05), mutual avoidance communication pattern (β = 0.386, p < .001), and emotional intelligence (β = -0.338, p < .001) significantly predicted marital conflict. The overall regression model was statistically significant (F = 9.925, p < .001) and explained 20% of the variance in marital conflict among married students (Adjusted R² = 0.200). The findings suggest that mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and constructive communication patterns function as protective factors against marital conflict among married students, whereas maladaptive communication patterns such as demand/withdraw interactions and mutual avoidance increase the likelihood of relational tension.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jafar Kardan (Corresponding Author); Fakher Biglaryan, Roghayeh Mohammadi Achacheloi (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Couple Therapy and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy on Emotional Expressiveness in Couples with Conflict
The present study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of emotionally focused couple therapy and cognitive-behavioral couple therapy on emotional expressiveness in couples experiencing conflict. The research method was a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group and a three-month follow-up phase. The statistical population consisted of all couples who referred to counseling centers in Districts 21 and 22 of Tehran in 2025. Using G*Power software, 45 couples were selected through purposive non-random sampling. They were then randomly assigned by lottery into three groups: 15 couples in the control group, 15 couples in the first experimental group, and 15 couples in the second experimental group. Data were collected using the Emotional Expressiveness Questionnaire developed by King and Emmons (1990) and the Marital Conflict Questionnaire developed by Sanaei and Barati (1999). The intervention sessions for the experimental groups were conducted based on theoretical principles using Johnson’s (2012) emotionally focused couple therapy package in 9 sessions of 90 minutes and Dattilio’s (2009) cognitive-behavioral couple therapy package in 10 sessions of 90 minutes at Fadak Psychology Clinic. No intervention was administered to the control group. A pretest was administered to all three groups before the intervention sessions, and a posttest was conducted after completion of the sessions. Data analysis was performed using mixed repeated-measures analysis of variance in SPSS-18 software. The findings indicated that both cognitive-behavioral couple therapy and emotionally focused couple therapy were effective in improving emotional expressiveness among couples with conflict. Emotionally focused couple therapy was found to be more effective than cognitive-behavioral couple therapy in enhancing emotional expressiveness. The findings of this study may provide practical implications for counselors and psychologists regarding the improvement of marital relationships among couples experiencing marital conflict.
Copyright (c) 2025 Davoud Zamani Khormandichali (Author); Asghar Noruzi (Corresponding Author); Kolsoum Akbarnataj Bisheh (Author)