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)
A Structural Model of Job Burnout and Work-Family Conflict in Teachers, with the Mediating Role of Mental Health and Psychological Capital: A Gender Comparison
The purpose of this research is to present a structural model of job burnout based on work-family conflict, mental health, and psychological capital, considering gender differences. The study population comprised sixth-grade teachers in Tehran, from which a sample of 400 individuals (223 female and 177 male) was selected using stratified sampling with equal allocation. Research instruments included the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Carlson Work-Family Conflict Scale, the Goldberg and Hiller General Health Questionnaire, and the Luthans Psychological Capital Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using correlation matrix and structural equation modeling. All paths were significant at the p≤.01level, except for the path from work-family conflict to job burnout and the path from psychological capital to job burnout. Among these coefficients, mental health (β=0.82) had the largest effect on job burnout. Overall, 41% of the total variance in job burnout was explained by work-family conflict, mental health, and psychological capital. There was a difference between the job burnout models for women and men. Given the impact of mental health on job burnout and work-family conflict among teachers, it appears that providing counseling and specialized psychological workshops for teachers could be effective in reducing their levels of job burnout and work-family conflict.
Occupational and Organizational Counseling
Copyright (c) 2026 Fereshteh Niksirat (Author); Molouk Khademi Ashkzari (Corresponding Author); Zahra Naghsh (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Olson’s Circumplex Model–Based Couple Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on Marital Burnout and Marital Self-Regulation in Couples with Conflict
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Olson’s Circumplex Model–based couple therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on marital burnout and marital self-regulation in couples experiencing marital conflict. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pretest, posttest, and follow-up assessments, including two experimental groups and one control group. The statistical population consisted of couples experiencing marital conflict who referred to counseling centers in Amol in 2024. A total of 48 participants (24 couples) were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. The first experimental group received ten sessions of Olson’s Circumplex Model–based couple therapy, and the second experimental group participated in eight sessions of ACT-based couple therapy. The control group did not receive any intervention during the study period. Data were collected using the Marital Conflict Questionnaire, the Marital Burnout Questionnaire, and the Marital Self-Regulation Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA), analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), repeated-measures ANOVA, and LSD post hoc tests in SPSS-27 at a significance level of .05. The results of MANCOVA indicated that both Olson-based couple therapy and ACT significantly reduced marital burnout and increased marital self-regulation compared to the control group (p < .001). ANCOVA results showed that, after controlling for pretest scores, the group effect was significant for marital burnout (F = 26.45, p < .001, η² = .664) and marital self-regulation (F = 24.63, p < .001, η² = .241). Post hoc comparisons revealed significant differences between the two experimental groups at posttest (p < .001), indicating differential magnitudes of effectiveness across outcomes. Both interventions are effective interventions for reducing marital burnout and enhancing marital self-regulation among couples experiencing conflict.
Copyright (c) 2026 Soheila Gholipour (Author); Jamshid Jarareh (Corresponding Author); Asghar Jafari (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Emotional Intelligence Training and Spiritual Intelligence Training on Executive Functions in Students with Learning Disorders
The present study was conducted with the aim of comparing the effectiveness of emotional intelligence training and spiritual intelligence training on executive functions in students with learning disorders. The present research was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest–posttest and follow-up design including a control group. The statistical population consisted of all students with learning disorders in Pishva, Varamin, who had referred to specialized learning disorder centers in Pishva, Varamin, in 2025; the research sample included 45 participants who were selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group, each consisting of 15 participants. The Nejati Cognitive Abilities Questionnaire (Nejati, 2013) was used for data collection. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) with repeated measures was used to analyze the data using SPSS software. The results indicated that there was a statistically significant difference between the effectiveness of emotional intelligence training and spiritual intelligence training on memory and sustained attention in students with learning disorders (p < .05). Emotional intelligence training resulted in significant improvements in memory, inhibitory control, decision-making, planning, and sustained attention scores (p < .05). Spiritual intelligence training resulted in significant improvements in memory and planning scores (p < .05). However, spiritual intelligence training did not have a statistically significant effect on inhibitory control, decision-making, or sustained attention scores (p > .05). Therefore, emotional intelligence training and spiritual intelligence training can be considered effective methods for improving executive functions in students with learning disorders.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fateme Ghasemi Bakhtiyari (Author); Habibollah Naderi (Corresponding Author); Reza Donyavi (Author)
Causal Modeling of Job Satisfaction Based on Self-Efficacy in Employees of the Mazandaran Province Red Crescent Society with the Mediating Role of Mindfulness
The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the fit of a job satisfaction model based on self-efficacy with the mediating role of mindfulness among employees of the Mazandaran Province Red Crescent Society. The research method was descriptive–correlational based on structural equation modeling. The statistical population of this study included all employees of the Mazandaran Province Red Crescent Society in 2025, whose total number was reported as 986 (N = 986). Using a convenience sampling method, 237 individuals were selected as the statistical sample (n = 237). The instruments used in this study included the standardized Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire developed by Weiss et al. (1967), the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire developed by Sherer et al. (1982), and the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire developed by Baer et al. (2006). Structural equation modeling was used for data analysis. The results of model fit indices indicated that the structural model demonstrated an acceptable fit. Furthermore, the results of Pearson’s correlation coefficient showed a positive and significant relationship between self-efficacy and job satisfaction (r = .42, p < .01), between self-efficacy and mindfulness (r = .65, p < .01), and between mindfulness and job satisfaction (r = .76, p < .01). In other words, self-efficacy was related to job satisfaction both directly and indirectly through the mediating role of mindfulness.
Copyright (c) 2026 Roghieh Kiakjori (Author); Saeed Najarpour Ostadi (Corresponding Author); Reza Abdi (Author)
Effectiveness of Self-Healing Training on Death Anxiety, Hope, and Loneliness in Older Adults
The purpose of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of self-healing training on death anxiety, hope, and feelings of loneliness in older adults. The research method was quasi-experimental with a pretest–posttest control group design. The statistical population consisted of adults aged over 70 years residing in a nursing home in Khorramabad City in 2024. Using convenience sampling, 50 participants were selected and randomly assigned to two groups of 25 (25 in the experimental group and 25 in the control group). Participants in the experimental group received self-healing training in eight sessions, each lasting 90 minutes, while the control group did not receive the intervention. Research data were collected using the Death Anxiety Scale (DAS; Templer, 1970), the Hope Questionnaire (HQ; Snyder et al., 1991), and the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Russell et al., 1980), and were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance. The findings indicated that, after controlling for pretest effects, there were significant differences between the posttest means of death anxiety, hope, and loneliness in older adults at the 0.01 level. Based on the results of the present study, it can be concluded that empowering older adults through self-healing training is an effective educational approach for reducing death anxiety and loneliness and for enhancing hope in this population.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamed Rashidi Asl (Author); Fariba Bashardoost Tajalli (Corresponding Author); Malek Mirhashemi (Author)
A Comparative Study of Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy and Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy on Marital Adjustment and Altruism in Couples with a Child with a Disability
The objective of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy and Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy on altruistic behavior and marital adjustment in couples. This study was applied in nature and employed a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design with a control group. The statistical population consisted of married couples who met the study inclusion criteria, from whom 30 couples were selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. The experimental groups received Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy or Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy according to structured intervention protocols, while the control group received no intervention. Data were collected using standardized measures of altruistic behavior and marital adjustment at pretest and posttest stages. Data analysis was conducted using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to compare posttest outcomes while controlling for pretest scores. The inferential results of the ANCOVA indicated that both Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy and Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy led to statistically significant improvements in altruistic behavior and marital adjustment compared with the control group (p < .001). After controlling for baseline scores, group membership had a significant effect on posttest altruism and marital adjustment, with very large effect sizes. However, no statistically significant difference was found between the two experimental groups, indicating that both therapeutic approaches were similarly effective in enhancing altruism and marital adjustment. The findings suggest that both Acceptance and Commitment–Based Couple Therapy and Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy are effective interventions for improving altruistic behavior and marital adjustment, and either approach can be confidently used in clinical couple therapy settings to promote relational functioning.
Copyright (c) 2026 Abbas Ghasemi (Author); Alireza Molazadeh (Corresponding Author); Rahim Hamidipour (Author)
The Mediating Role of Marital Infidelity Justification in the Relationship Between Cognitive Flexibility and Marital burnout
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of marital infidelity justification in the relationship between cognitive flexibility and marital burnout. Methods: A descriptive-correlational research design with a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was employed. The statistical population consisted of all married individuals who referred to counseling centers in Districts 3 and 11 of Tehran in 2024. A total of 373 participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using Pines’ (1996) Marital Burnout Questionnaire, Dennis and VanderWal’s (2010) Cognitive Flexibility Inventory, and Yenisari and Kokdemir’s (2006) Marital Infidelity Justification Scale. Data analysis was performed using SEM. Findings: The results showed that the structural model had a good fit with the collected data. Cognitive flexibility was found to have a significant negative relationship with marital burnout. Additionally, justification of marital infidelity was positively and significantly related to marital burnout. Moreover, justification of infidelity significantly and negatively mediated the relationship between cognitive flexibility and marital burnout. Conclusion: Based on the findings, practical implications can be proposed to improve couple relationships by focusing on the key psychological variables explored in this study.
Copyright (c) 2026 Somayeh Rezaee (Author); Mohammadali Mohammadyfar (Corresponding Author); Mahmoud Najafi (Author)
Paradigmatic Model of Tacit Knowledge Sharing from the Perspective of Psychology Experts in Iranian Universities: A Grounded Theory Approach
In the contemporary knowledge-based era, organizations—particularly universities—have become increasingly reliant on their knowledge capital. Within this context, tacit knowledge, as a hidden yet strategic resource, plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of education, research, and innovation. Unlike explicit knowledge, tacit knowledge is formed through experience, intuition, and personal skills, and is transmitted only through social interactions and human relationships. Despite the importance of this concept, academic research in Iran has largely focused on explicit knowledge, and no comprehensive model of tacit knowledge sharing from the perspective of academic psychologists has been proposed. The aim of the present study was to design a paradigmatic model of tacit knowledge sharing in Iranian universities using a grounded theory approach. This qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with psychology experts. The data were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding, and the final model was extracted in the form of five core categories: causal conditions, contextual conditions, intervening conditions, strategies, and consequences. The results indicated that factors such as trust, motivation, interpersonal skills, organizational culture, and managerial support play a key role in tacit knowledge sharing. The outcomes of this process include the empowerment of psychologists, improved performance, increased creativity, and enhanced quality of psychological services. The findings suggest that tacit knowledge sharing is a dynamic and multi-level process shaped through the interaction between organizational structures and psychological components. By focusing on the perspectives of psychologists and integrating a psychological approach with grounded theory, this study represents a novel step toward the localization of knowledge management theories within the context of higher education in Iran.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gholamali Roudi (Author); Fateme Momeni (Corresponding Author); Elham Mostafavi, Fateme Sagha (Author)
The Effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Psychotherapy and Counseling in Married Women with Vaginismus
This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of emotion-focused psychotherapy and counseling in reducing vaginismus symptoms among married women. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest and follow-up structure including a control group. The statistical population comprised married women with vaginismus who referred to counseling centers in District 2 of Tehran during the second half of 2024 and the first half of 2025. Using purposive and convenience sampling, 30 eligible participants were selected and randomly assigned to an experimental group receiving emotion-focused psychotherapy and counseling and a control group, each consisting of 15 participants. Inclusion criteria included age between 30 and 45 years, at least two years of marital life, minimum lower secondary education, and willingness to participate in therapy sessions. Exclusion criteria involved pregnancy, severe psychiatric disorders, use of psychotropic medication, chronic physical illness, or excessive absence from sessions. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Vaginismus Questionnaire. Measurements were conducted at pretest, posttest, and follow-up stages. Data analysis was performed using repeated measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni post-hoc tests in SPSS version 26. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant main effects of time and group, as well as significant time × group interaction effects for all vaginismus components and the total score (p < .001). Effect sizes ranged from moderate to large, indicating substantial treatment impact. Bonferroni post-hoc comparisons showed significant reductions from pretest to posttest and from pretest to follow-up in the experimental group across all components (p < .01), while differences between posttest and follow-up were not statistically significant, suggesting stability of treatment effects over time. Emotion-focused psychotherapy and counseling were effective in significantly reducing vaginismus symptoms and maintaining therapeutic gains over time, highlighting the value of emotion-centered interventions in addressing the emotional and relational dimensions of vaginismus.
Copyright (c) 2026 Leila Bayat (Author); Abdollah Shafiabady (Corresponding Author); Reza Khakpour (Author)
Effectiveness of Ellis’s Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy on Perceived Stress and Alexithymia in Single Women
The aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of Ellis’s Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) on perceived stress and alexithymia. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group. Questionnaire administration was conducted in person. The statistical population of this study included all undergraduate female psychology students enrolled in the 2022 academic year at Islamic Azad University, Khomeini Shahr Branch. Sampling in this study was conducted using convenience sampling, and 30 undergraduate female psychology students from Islamic Azad University, Khomeini Shahr Branch, were selected. From this group of 30 participants, 15 were randomly assigned to the experimental group and 15 to the control group. The data were collected using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS; Cohen et al., 1983) and the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20; Bagby et al., 1994). The results indicated that Ellis’s Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy had a statistically significant effect on perceived stress and alexithymia. In addition, Ellis’s Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy had a statistically significant effect on the subscales of alexithymia, including difficulty identifying feelings, difficulty describing feelings, and externally oriented thinking (p < .05). Therefore, it can be concluded that Ellis’s Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy can be used to improve perceived stress and alexithymia.
Ellis’s Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
Copyright (c) 2026 Majid Azimi Fereidani (Corresponding Author); Farzaneh Niknejadi (Author)
A Model of School Social Well-Being for Elementary School Students: A Mixed-Methods Approach
This study aimed to develop and validate a comprehensive model of school social well-being for elementary school students. The study employed a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design. In the qualitative phase, thematic analysis was conducted based on research synthesis and semi-structured interviews with 15 academic experts and education practitioners, selected through purposive sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. In the quantitative phase, a fuzzy Delphi method was used to screen and confirm the importance of the identified components and indicators. Subsequently, a researcher-developed questionnaire was administered to 375 elementary school principals and teachers selected through simple random sampling. Data were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis, partial least squares structural equation modeling, and the Best–Worst Method for prioritization, with analyses performed in SPSS, SmartPLS, and LINGO software. Inferential results supported a five-dimensional model of school social well-being, including social relationships, school environment and atmosphere, individual factors and personal interactions, cultural and educational factors, and structural and managerial factors. All factor loadings exceeded the acceptable threshold and were statistically significant. The measurement and structural models demonstrated adequate reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. Path analysis indicated that all five dimensions had significant positive effects on school social well-being. Model fit indices and predictive relevance measures confirmed a strong overall model fit. Prioritization results showed that social relationships had the highest relative importance, followed by school environment and atmosphere, individual factors and personal interactions, cultural and educational factors, and structural and managerial factors. The findings indicate that school social well-being among elementary students is a multidimensional construct shaped by relational, environmental, individual, cultural, and organizational factors.
individual factors and personal interactions
Copyright (c) 2026 Azizollah Malmir (Author); Seyedeh Khadijeh Moafimadani (Corresponding Author); Samira Pali (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Bowenian Systemic Therapy and Minuchin’s Structural Therapy on Family Cohesion and Marital Commitment in Conflictual Couples in Mashhad
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Bowenian systemic therapy and Minuchin’s structural therapy on family cohesion and marital commitment among couples experiencing marital conflict. The research method was quasi-experimental with a pretest–posttest design, including a control group and a one-month follow-up. The statistical population consisted of all conflictual couples who referred to counseling centers (Dr. Hekmabadi, Lifestyle, Farhikhtagan, Rah-e Sabz, and Rasa) in the city of Mashhad during the summer of 2024 (July to September 2024). Using convenience sampling, 90 couples were selected as the sample and were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (30 participants in each group). Data were collected using the Family Organizational Cohesion Questionnaire developed by Fisher et al. (1992) and the Marital Commitment Questionnaire by Adams and Jones (1997). One week after administering the pretest to all three groups, the first experimental group received Bowenian systemic therapy, the second experimental group received Minuchin’s structural therapy, and the control group received no intervention. Subsequently, the posttest was administered to all groups. To examine between-group differences, a multivariate repeated-measures analysis of variance (MANOVA) was conducted, considering the within-subject factor (time: test) and the between-subject factor (group membership). The results indicated that both Bowenian systemic therapy and Minuchin’s structural therapy were effective in improving family cohesion and marital commitment in conflictual couples. Another finding showed that there was a statistically significant difference between the effectiveness of Bowenian systemic therapy and Minuchin’s structural therapy on family cohesion only in the dimension of participation and cooperation; however, no statistically significant difference was observed between the two therapies with respect to marital commitment. Based on the study findings, Bowenian systemic therapy and Minuchin’s structural therapy were both effective in enhancing family cohesion and marital commitment among couples experiencing marital conflict.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamid Seraj Kermani (Author); Mehdi Ghasemi Motlagh (Corresponding Author); Baratali Ghavami (Author)
Comparing the Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy and Psychodrama on Distress Tolerance and Anxiety Sensitivity in Bereaved Survivors of Deceased COVID-19 Patients
The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral group therapy and psychodrama on distress tolerance and anxiety sensitivity among bereaved survivors of patients who died due to COVID-19. This applied, quasi-experimental study employed a pretest–posttest control group design with a two-month follow-up. The population consisted of bereaved survivors of deceased COVID-19 patients in Shiraz, Iran. Thirty-six eligible participants were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to a mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy group, a psychodrama therapy group, or a control group (12 participants per group). The interventions were delivered in group format over eight and ten 90-minute sessions respectively. Data were collected at pretest, posttest, and follow-up using the Distress Tolerance Scale and the Anxiety Sensitivity Index-Revised. Statistical analysis was conducted using repeated-measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests in SPSS-22. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed significant main effects of time and significant interaction effects between time and group for all components of distress tolerance and anxiety sensitivity (p < .001). Between-group comparisons indicated significant differences across all outcome variables (p < .001). Bonferroni post-hoc analyses demonstrated that both intervention groups significantly outperformed the control group, while the psychodrama group showed significantly greater improvement than the mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy group on all components (p < .05). Treatment gains were maintained at follow-up. Both mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodrama effectively enhanced distress tolerance and reduced anxiety sensitivity in bereaved COVID-19 survivors, with psychodrama producing superior and more durable outcomes.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Copyright (c) 2026 Javid Karaminezhad (Author); Ali Nori (Corresponding Author); Mohammad Asgari (Author)
Love and Deception: Exploring the Lived Experience of Deceptive Men in Romantic Relationships
A romantic bond that is formed through reliance on deception constitutes a lust-driven and tension-inducing craving that, in addition to harming the victim, can also entrap the deceiver in severe and enduring suffering—ambiguous forms of suffering whose clarification has thus far been largely neglected in the literature. The objective of the present study was to explore the lived experience of deceptive men in unstable and deception-laden romantic relationships. The present study employed a qualitative design based on interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Using purposive sampling, the researcher selected and interviewed 18 individuals who had current or previous experiences of emotional deception. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and ultimately analyzed using the interpretative phenomenological analysis method proposed by Smith et al. (2009). Exploration of the participants’ lived experiences led to the identification of four superordinate themes: the death of secure beliefs and the consolidation of their contradictions; love as a fabricated lust with fourfold masks; soothing cognitive–moral justifications; and a hell called: the inability to love. Examination of the lived experiences of emotional deceivers revealed that emotional deception and engagement in false romantic relationships, apart from transient pleasures, leave profound and lasting suffering in these individuals. This destructive suffering gradually renders this group pessimistic toward themselves, others, human relationships, and life as a whole, making the re-experience of peace in their personal, relational, and social worlds difficult and, in some cases, virtually impossible.
interpretative phenomenological analysis
Copyright (c) 2026 Mousa Choupani (Corresponding Author); Samareh Azarzobdeh, Tahereh Pouladkhani, Reza Alibabaei, Atefeh Afrashteh (Author)
The Effectiveness of Time Perspective Training on Academic Burnout, Self-Defeating Behavior, and Thought Control Strategies in Upper Secondary School Students
This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of time perspective training on reducing academic burnout and self-defeating behavior and on improving thought control strategies among upper secondary school students. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with pretest, posttest, and follow-up assessments and a control group. Participants were 45 upper secondary school female students selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received a structured time perspective training program based on Zimbardo’s theoretical framework delivered in 10 sessions over 8 weeks, while the control group received no intervention. Data were collected using the Academic Burnout Questionnaire, the Self-Defeating Behavior and Cognition Scale, and the Thought Control Questionnaire. Statistical analyses were conducted using univariate and multivariate analysis of covariance, with Bonferroni post hoc comparisons. After controlling for pretest scores, significant group effects were observed for academic burnout (F = 316.32, p < .001, η² = .556), self-defeating behavior (F = 34.20, p < .001, η² = .430), and thought control strategies (F = 79.55, p < .001, η² = .369). Bonferroni comparisons indicated that the experimental group demonstrated significantly lower levels of academic burnout and self-defeating behavior and significantly higher adaptive thought control at posttest compared with the control group (p < .001). These effects remained stable at follow-up. Time perspective training constitutes a highly effective intervention for improving academic and psychological functioning in adolescents and offers a promising approach for school-based mental health and educational support programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Saeb Seifi (Author); Faezeh Jahan (Corresponding Author); Nemat Sotoudeh, Noor Mohammad Rezaei (Author)
Determination of the Psychometric Properties of the Inventory of Drug Use Consequences (INDUC) and Its Relationship with General Health (GHQ-28) in an Iranian Population
The purpose of the present study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Inventory of Drug Use Consequences. This study was an exploratory investigation based on classical test theory and is classified as an instrument development study. The statistical population consisted of all individuals with a history of substance use who were receiving treatment at Karizak Addiction Treatment Center. A convenience sample of 382 participants was selected from this center. The Inventory of Drug Use Consequences (INDUC) is a standardized instrument for assessing the negative consequences of substance use, developed by Tonigan and Miller (2022). In this field study, data were collected using the INDUC and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Data were gathered through the Inventory of Drug Use Consequences (Tonigan & Miller, 2022) and the General Health Questionnaire (Goldberg, 1972) and analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (principal component analysis) and confirmatory factor analysis with SPSS and AMOS software. Based on the findings of this study, the Inventory of Drug Use Consequences demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties and reliability in the Iranian population. Reliability and validity at both the subscale and total score levels, along with good model fit of the five-factor structure in both exploratory and confirmatory analyses, indicate the adequacy of the factor structure of this instrument. The results showed that the items of the Inventory of Drug Use Consequences possess acceptable reliability and adequate construct validity. Moreover, significant correlations were observed between the total scores and subscales of the Inventory of Drug Use Consequences and the General Health Questionnaire.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fatemeh Tarzi (Author); Jalil Younisi Broujeni (Corresponding Author); Ali Fathi (Author)
Early Detection of Anxiety Disorders in Single Mothers Through Explainable Machine Learning Models
The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate explainable machine learning models for the early detection of anxiety disorders among single mothers living in Tehran, with an emphasis on identifying key psychosocial and socioeconomic predictors of anxiety risk. This cross-sectional study was conducted among single mothers residing in Tehran who were primary caregivers of at least one child under 18 years of age. Participants were recruited from community health centers and social support organizations. Data were collected using standardized self-report measures assessing anxiety symptoms, perceived stress, sleep quality, depressive symptoms, social support, and relevant sociodemographic characteristics. Following data preprocessing, multiple supervised machine learning algorithms, including regularized logistic regression, support vector machines, and tree-based ensemble models, were trained and evaluated using stratified cross-validation. Model performance was assessed using accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Explainable machine learning techniques were applied to interpret model predictions and determine the relative importance of predictors at both global and individual levels. Inferential analyses indicated that ensemble-based machine learning models achieved the highest predictive performance, with gradient boosting models demonstrating superior accuracy and discrimination. Sensitivity and specificity values suggested strong capability in correctly identifying both high-risk and low-risk individuals. Explainable analyses revealed that perceived stress and sleep quality were the strongest predictors of anxiety risk, followed by social support and depressive symptoms, while socioeconomic factors such as income showed smaller but meaningful contributions through interaction effects. Explainable machine learning models provide an accurate and interpretable approach for early detection of anxiety disorders among single mothers, enabling timely identification of high-risk individuals while highlighting the psychosocial and structural factors underlying anxiety vulnerability. These findings support the integration of transparent data-driven screening tools into community and primary care settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Majid Mahmoodi Mozafar (Author); Mohammad Mohebi (Corresponding Author); Maryam Feyzbakhsh Vaghef (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) on Cognitive Distortions and Emotion Regulation in Women with Social Anxiety Disorder
The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the effectiveness of a task-based cognitive rehabilitation program on improving executive functions in children diagnosed with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder. This research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest structure and a control group. From the population of children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder who attended rehabilitation centers and clinics in Tehran in 2024, a total of 30 children were selected using convenience sampling and were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received 12 sessions of a 45-minute task-based cognitive rehabilitation intervention, whereas the control group did not receive any intervention. The Go/No-Go Test (Menon, Adleman, & White, 2001), the Color–Word Test (Stroop, 1935), and the N-Back Test (Kirchner, 1985) were employed as research instruments. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance. The findings indicated that the task-based cognitive rehabilitation program had a significant effect on improving components of executive functions (including attention, inhibition, and visuospatial working memory) in children with high-functioning autism (P ≤ .05). Based on the results, it can be concluded that the task-based cognitive rehabilitation program can be used as an effective intervention for enhancing executive functions in children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder.
Copyright (c) 2025 Seyede Shahrbano Shafie Nezhad (Author); Hossein Bigdeli (Corresponding Author); Nasser Sobhi Gharamaleki (Author)
Development of a Healthy Lifestyle Promotion Protocol for Individuals with Binge Eating
The objective of this study was to develop and validate a comprehensive, evidence-based protocol for promoting a healthy lifestyle among individuals with binge eating, grounded in empirical data and aligned with contemporary behavioral and psychological models. This applied mixed-methods study followed a sequential exploratory design. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews were conducted with adults with binge eating from Tehran using purposive sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved, and data were analyzed through thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, the extracted components were examined in a larger sample to assess content validity and internal consistency, and the finalized protocol was structured into a session-based intervention model. Thematic analysis yielded six core domains of healthy lifestyle promotion: psychological self-regulation, eating behavior restructuring, physical activity integration, stress and sleep management, social and environmental support, and meaning and motivation. Content validity indices and ratios exceeded acceptable thresholds for all components, and reliability analysis demonstrated strong internal consistency, with high Cronbach’s alpha coefficients for individual domains and excellent overall protocol reliability. The findings support the conceptualization of binge eating as a multidimensional lifestyle-related condition and indicate that the developed protocol is theoretically coherent, empirically grounded, and psychometrically sound. The protocol provides a structured yet flexible framework that integrates emotional, behavioral, and lifestyle components, offering a promising approach for promoting sustainable healthy lifestyle change among individuals with binge eating.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sedigheh Zamani (Corresponding Author); Mahbod Shahpouri Arani (Author)
Modeling Premature Ejaculation Disorder Based on Body Image with the Mediating Role of Attachment and Narcissism
The present study aimed to model premature ejaculation disorder based on body image with the mediating role of attachment and narcissism. The study employed a descriptive-correlational design using structural equation modeling (SEM). The statistical population included all married men in Tehran in 2024, from whom 250 participants were selected through convenience sampling. The research instruments included the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (Symonds et al., 2007), the Body Image Questionnaire (Fisher, 1970), the Adult Attachment Scale (Collins & Read, 1996), and the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (Ames et al., 2006). Data were analyzed using SPSS-24 and AMOS-24 software. The findings indicated that the body image had a significant direct effect on premature ejaculation. In addition, body image had a significant indirect effect on premature ejaculation through avoidant attachment style (p < 0.001). However, narcissism did not show a significant effect. The results suggest that premature ejaculation disorder is not merely a biological phenomenon but is also influenced by psychological factors related to body perception, attachment patterns, and personality traits. Enhancing positive body image and modifying maladaptive attachment styles may be effective components in psychological interventions for this disorder.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamideh Zahmati, Nader Monirpoor, Mohammad Ali Besharat, Hamidreza Hassanabadi (Author)
Prediction of Burnout Among Caregivers in Elderly Care Centers Based on Psychological Capital and Empathy: The Mediating Role of Caregiving Burden
The aim of the present study was to examine the fit of a structural model for predicting burnout among caregivers in elderly care centers based on psychological capital and empathy, with the mediating role of caregiving burden. The statistical population consisted of all caregivers employed in elderly care centers located in the city of Karaj in 2025 who had more than five months of experience in caring for older adults. A non-random, voluntary sampling method was used, and due to adequate access to the target population, a relatively large sample size (N = 200) was selected to ensure greater precision in structural equation modeling analyses. In addition, according to Kline (2011), in structural equation modeling, the sample size should be at least five to ten times the number of observed variables. The research method was correlational using structural equation modeling. Data were collected using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (Maslach, 1985), the Psychological Capital Questionnaire developed by Luthans et al. (2007), the Empathy Quotient Questionnaire by Baron-Cohen (2004), and the Caregiver Burden Questionnaire by Novak and Guest (1989). Data analysis was conducted using the structural equation modeling (SEM) statistical approach. The results indicated that the indirect path coefficient between psychological capital and burnout (β = −0.238, p = 0.010), on the one hand, and the indirect path coefficient between empathy and burnout (β = −0.100, p = 0.003), on the other hand, were both negative and statistically significant. These findings indicate that caregiving burden significantly and negatively mediates the relationship between psychological capital and empathy with burnout among caregivers in elderly care centers.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shima Sadat Musavi Mirkalaiee (Author); Nastern Sharifi (Corresponding Author); Nasrin Bagheri (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Schema Therapy and Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy on Distress Tolerance in Maladjusted Couples
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of schema therapy and cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) on distress tolerance in maladjusted couples. This applied research was conducted using a quasi-experimental design with pretest–posttest and a control group. The statistical population consisted of all couples who referred to psychology clinics in District 2 of Tehran during the first half of 2025. A sample of 45 couples was selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to three groups: schema therapy, cognitive–behavioral therapy, and control. Following the withdrawal of one couple from the cognitive–behavioral therapy group, data analysis was conducted on 44 couples. Research instruments included the Emotional Distress Tolerance Questionnaire, which was administered at three stages: pretest, posttest, and a two-month follow-up. The schema therapy group received ten intervention sessions based on Young’s model, including identification of maladaptive schemas, coping styles, and emotional restructuring techniques (Young, 2003). The cognitive–behavioral therapy group participated in ten sessions focusing on communication skills training, cognitive restructuring, stress management, and modification of dysfunctional patterns (Beck, 2011). No intervention was implemented for the control group. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance. The results indicated that both interventions significantly improved couples’ distress tolerance; however, schema therapy demonstrated significantly greater effectiveness than cognitive–behavioral therapy, and its effects remained more stable at the follow-up stage. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the deeper, emotion-focused, and core-level interventions characteristic of schema therapy play a more substantial role in enhancing distress tolerance among maladjusted couples.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fatemeh Saroukhani (Author); Abdollah Shafiabadi (Corresponding Author); Sima Ghodrati (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Compassion-Based Therapy and Mentalization-Based Interventions on Perceived Stress and Psychological Well-Being in Workers with Job Burnout
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a compassion-based intervention and a mentalization-based intervention on perceived stress and psychological well-being in workers experiencing job burnout. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group and a two-month follow-up. The statistical population included all workers with job burnout at Mansour Industry Factory in Falavarjan County in 2024. From this population, 60 participants were selected using purposive sampling and then randomly assigned to three groups of 20 participants each (two experimental groups and one control group). Data collection instruments included the Maslach Burnout Inventory (Maslach, 1981), the Perceived Stress Scale developed by Cohen and Kamarck (1983), and Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale (Ryff, 1995). The first experimental group received mentalization-based training, and the second experimental group received a compassion-based intervention, each delivered in 12 sessions of 90 minutes, while the control group was placed on a waitlist. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc tests. The results indicated that both interventions had a significant effect on perceived stress and psychological well-being, and the stability of these effects was maintained during the follow-up period (p < .05). Moreover, the findings showed that the compassion-based intervention was more effective than the mentalization-based intervention in reducing perceived stress and enhancing psychological well-being (p < .05). Accordingly, occupational and organizational counselors can utilize compassion-based and mentalization-based interventions to promote workers’ mental health and organizational performance.
Copyright (c) 2025 Marzieh Mahmoudi Baram (Author); Mohammad Ghasemi Pirbaluti (Corresponding Author); Tayyebeh Sharifi (Author)
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Cognitive–Behavioral Group Counseling and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Emotional Styles in Women on the Verge of Divorce
The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of group-based cognitive–behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy on emotional styles in women on the verge of divorce. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pretest, posttest, and two-month follow-up assessments, including a control group. The statistical population consisted of women seeking divorce who referred to counseling centers in District 5 of Tehran during the second half of 2024. Using voluntary sampling, 45 participants were selected and randomly assigned to a cognitive–behavioral therapy group, an acceptance and commitment therapy group, or a control group, with 15 participants in each group. The interventions were delivered in 12 group sessions. Emotional styles were assessed using the Emotional Expressiveness Questionnaire, measuring positive emotion expression, negative emotion expression, intimacy expression, and overall emotional styles. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance, analysis of covariance, and Tukey post-hoc tests. Inferential analyses indicated a significant main effect of time for both intervention groups, with large effect sizes, while no significant changes were observed in the control group. Both cognitive–behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy led to significant improvements in overall emotional styles, including increased positive emotion and intimacy expression and decreased negative emotion expression from pretest to posttest. Tukey post-hoc comparisons revealed that acceptance and commitment therapy produced significantly greater improvements than cognitive–behavioral therapy at posttest. Although a slight reduction in treatment effects was observed at the two-month follow-up, the improvements in both intervention groups remained statistically significant compared to baseline levels. The findings suggest that both cognitive–behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy are effective interventions for improving emotional styles in women on the verge of divorce, with acceptance and commitment therapy demonstrating superior and more sustained effects.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fariba Hamzeh (Author); Azam Fattahi Andabil (Corresponding Author); Jamshid Jarareh (Author)
The Effect of Organizational Happiness on Organizational Reputation among Employees of Selected Martial Arts Federations: The Mediating Role of Resilience
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of organizational happiness on organizational reputation among employees of selected martial arts federations, with the mediating role of resilience. The present study was descriptive–correlational in nature, and the data were collected in the field through questionnaires using a survey method. The statistical population consisted of all employees of the martial arts, judo, wushu, karate, and taekwondo federations, totaling 337 individuals, from whom 175 participants were selected as the statistical sample using proportional stratified random sampling. Data were collected using the Organizational Happiness Questionnaire by Krolf (2007), the Organizational Reputation Questionnaire by Fombrun and Van Riel (2003), and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale. Data analysis was conducted using correlation coefficients, multiple regression analysis, and structural equation modeling. All statistical analyses were performed using PLS and SPSS software. The results showed that organizational happiness has a significant effect on organizational reputation and resilience among employees of the selected martial arts federations, such that 27.98% of the variance in organizational reputation and 25% of the variance in resilience were explained by organizational happiness. In addition, resilience had a significant effect on organizational reputation, explaining 8.76% of its variance. The results of the Sobel test also indicated that resilience plays a mediating role in the relationship between organizational happiness and organizational reputation among employees of the selected martial arts federations. Therefore, given the importance of organizational happiness and resilience in enhancing employees’ organizational reputation in martial arts federations, it is recommended that managers and officials of these federations design and implement regular and targeted programs to promote happiness in the workplace.
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)