Showing 273 results for Type of Study: Research
Raziyeh Khorramabadi, Maryam Afraze, Mahdi Karvandi Renani, Reza Niknam,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
In the information age, the excessive accumulation of digital data has become a significant challenge. This research aimed to investigate the psychological factors influencing digital hoarding, particularly among university students. Using structural equation modeling on data from 413 students at Persian Gulf and Allameh Tabatabaei Universities, the relationship between saving cognitions, emotion regulation difficulties, and digital hoarding was examined. A convenience sampling method was employed, and data was collected using the Digital Hoarding Scale (Neave et al., 2019), Saving Cognitions Scale (Steketee et al., 2003), and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (Gratz & Roemer, 2004). The results revealed that hoarding cognitions play a pivotal role in predicting digital hoarding (Β=0.623, P<0.001). Students who held inaccurate beliefs about the value of digital information and experienced difficulty discarding it were more likely to excessively accumulate data. Moreover, a complex interaction between saving cognitions and emotion regulation difficulties was observed. Although emotion regulation difficulties did not have a direct impact on digital hoarding (Β=-0.011, P<0.848), it served as a moderating role when interacting with saving cognitions (Β=-0.147, P=0.022); This means that as the difficulty in emotion regulation increased, the impact of hoarding cognitions on digital hoarding intensified, such that individuals who had both strong hoarding cognitions and difficulties in emotion regulation were more prone to digital hoarding. This research indicates that to address the growing problem of digital hoarding, it is necessary to simultaneously focus on changing maladaptive beliefs and improving emotion regulation skills. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the underlying psychological mechanisms of digital hoarding and can be useful in designing effective therapeutic interventions for this disorder.
Seyed Mohammad Saeid Sahaf,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Problem-solving is a goal-directed cognitive process that involves evaluating a problem and generating solutions to achieve desired outcomes. This skill is influenced by optimal timing regulation and self-control. The present study aimed to examine the role of total time, delay time, task difficulty, reaction time, and self-control in the speed-accuracy trade-off.
The sample consisted of 54 female students aged 10 to 11 years, with no history of illness, who were selected through convenience sampling from non-profit schools in Mashhad during the 2022–2023 academic year. The Tower of London task was used to assess accuracy in problem-solving, delay time, total time, and task difficulty, while the Flanker task was employed to measure self-control and reaction time. Multiple regression and mediation analyses were conducted in SPSS-26 to predict the influence of these variables on problem-solving accuracy.
The results indicated that total time (β = -0.769), delay time (β = 0.574), task difficulty (β = 0.388), and reaction time (β = -0.160) significantly predicted problem-solving accuracy. Specifically, an increase in total time led to decreased accuracy, whereas a longer delay before initiating problem-solving improved accuracy. Although the moderating role of self-control in the relationship between delay time, total time, and accuracy was not significant (p > 0.05), stepwise regression revealed that self-control was a significant predictor of accuracy (β = 0.157).
Thus, timing plays a crucial role in problem-solving accuracy. Allocating sufficient time for cognitive processing before responding can enhance performance, whereas prolonged problem-solving may reduce accuracy due to increased cognitive load or inefficient strategies. However, task difficulty and the nature of the task are also key factors in this relationship. The non-significant moderating effect of self-control may be attributed to its broader connections with other cognitive dimensions in participants.
Bahare Mohammadi, Yasaman Hashemi, Fateme Jahangirian, Atefeh Batwani,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
The present study aimed to compare cognitive subscales—fluid reasoning, working memory, and visual-spatial processing—among students with reading and mathematics learning disabilities, with an emphasis on a cognitive perspective. This causal-comparative study initially involved a sample of 90 students (30 with reading disability, 30 with mathematics disability, and 30 typically developing students as the control group), selected through convenience sampling from counseling centers and psychological clinics in Tehran. After excluding 12 cases with incomplete data, the final analysis was conducted on 78 students. To assess cognitive components, the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Scales, Fifth Edition (SB5) was used. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc tests. The findings revealed that students with learning disabilities performed significantly lower than the control group in the subscales of fluid reasoning, working memory, and visual-spatial processing (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were found between the reading and math disability groups. These results suggest that deficits in the assessed cognitive subscales are present in both types of learning disabilities and may contribute to academic underachievement. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of SB5 cognitive subscales in explaining learning difficulties and underscore the need for cognitive-based interventions aimed at strengthening these components to improve academic performance and reduce symptoms in students with reading and math learning disabilities.
Leila Fatehi Khoshknabk, Dr Majid Mahmood Alilo, Dr Ali Asgharzadeh, Dr Amir Panahali, Dr Akbar Rezaei,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
The present study aimed to compare recognition memory and memory confidence among individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) subtypes—washing and checking—and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) using an experimental post-event design. The sample consisted of 45 patients referred to Razi Hospital Clinic in Tabriz in 2023, divided into three groups of 15 each: washing-type OCD, checking-type OCD, and GAD. Participants were aged 20 to 45 years, had at least a high school diploma, and included both genders. Memory was assessed using two computerized word lists, comprising recognition and recall tasks. Data were analyzed through multivariate analysis. Findings indicated significant differences among groups in recognition memory and memory confidence (p < 0.05), with the checking-type OCD group demonstrating poorer performance compared to the other groups. These results highlight the differential impact of emotional disorders on cognitive memory components and emphasize the need for targeted cognitive and psychotherapeutic interventions to improve memory functioning in OCD and anxiety patients.
Miss Hadis Valizadeh, Dr Shahram Mami, Dr Homeira Soleimannejad, Dr Zeinab Mihandoost,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Metacognitive Therapy (MCT) and Time Perspective Therapy (TPT) self-Efficacy of quitting in individuals with substance dependence. This quasi-experimental research employed a pre-test, post-test, and two-month follow-up design. The statistical population included all individuals with substance dependence who referred to addiction treatment centers in Kermanshah in 2024. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 60 eligible participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to three groups (two experimental and one control), each consisting of 20 individuals. The Self-Efficacy of Quitting Scale (Bramson, 1999) was administered during the pre-test, post-test, and follow-up phases. Data were analyzed using repeated measures and Bonferroni post-hoc tests at a significance level of 0.05 via SPSS-26. The findings revealed a significant difference between the control group and both treatment groups regarding self-Efficacy of quitting. Both metacognitive therapy and time perspective therapy significantly increased self-Efficacy of quitting, and these effects remained stable during the follow-up phase. Furthermore, metacognitive therapy proved to be more effective than time perspective therapy in enhancing self-Efficacy of quitting. Based on these results, although both treatments can be used to improve self-Efficacy of quitting in individuals with substance dependence, metacognitive therapy may offer greater practical implications for psychologists and psychiatrists due to its superior effectiveness.
Maliheh Pazooki, Elahe Jafarpoor, Zahra Hajati, Sara Malakmohammadi,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of cognitive self-efficacy in the relationship between early maladaptive schemas and psychological vitality in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder. The statistical population consisted of all clinical medical students at Golestan University in 2024, from which a sample of 120 students was selected through non-random convenience sampling. The research instruments included the Young Schema Questionnaire – Short Form (1998), the Cognitive Self-Efficacy Scale by Sherer et al. (1982), and the Psychological Vitality Scale developed by Kahn and Crawford (2003). Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results indicated that early maladaptive schemas had a significant negative relationship with psychological vitality, and this relationship was mediated by reduced cognitive self-efficacy. In other words, early maladaptive schemas lead to decreased psychological vitality in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder by weakening cognitive self-efficacy. These findings highlight the importance of addressing early maladaptive schemas and enhancing cognitive self-efficacy as therapeutic strategies to improve psychological vitality and overall mental well-being in individuals suffering from anxiety. Accordingly, it is recommended that psychological interventions simultaneously target schema modification and self-efficacy enhancement.
Mahdiyar Mokhlespour Esfahani, Alireza Moradi, Mehrdad Dadgostar, Nooshin Pourbaghi, Mostafa Khanzadi,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Adhering to ethical principles in construction projects is one of the most fundamental elements for achieving project goals. This research aimed to assess civil engineers' moral development level using Kohlberg's moral dilemmas while simultaneously recording brain data. Thirty right-handed male engineers with at least three years of practical experience participated in the study. Their hemodynamic brain activity was monitored using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC), the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC), and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) during three phases: reading the stories, answering questions, and prioritizing. The results were analyzed using a non-parametric Mann-Whitney statistical test, revealing a significant difference in the levels of HbO2 in the right DLPFC and the left VLPFC while reading the stories, between engineers with better and poorer moral judgment (p = 0.047 and p = 0.026, respectively). This activity in the mentioned regions was greater for engineers with better scores. Also, it was found that in the prioritization phase, the level of Hb in the right VLPFC was significantly higher in the group with low-ethics scores (p = 0.015). The findings indicate the key role of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in processing conflicts and moral judgments, which aligns with previous research. Despite the numerous advantages of NIRS, this method has limitations in measuring the depth of brain activity. It is suggested that future research include female engineers, left-handed individuals, and additional brain regions. Therefore, this study represents a novel step in predicting the moral level of engineers using hemodynamic brain data, providing biological evidence consistent with the results of the moral dilemma questionnaires and enabling the prediction of the moral development level of civil engineers using artificial intelligence.
Feresheh Reza, Javanshir Asadi, Arastoo Mirani, Afsaneh Khajevand Khoshli,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of cognitive-behavioral therapy on reducing perfectionism and cognitive error of thought-action equivalence in women with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The study was conducted using a quasi-experimental method with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population included all women with obsessive-compulsive disorder referring to Sarohana Clinic in Pasdaran district of Tehran in 1404. The research sample was selected using an accessible and purposeful method and included 45 people who were randomly assigned to three groups (cognitive-behavioral therapy, short-term psychodynamic therapy, and control). The data collection tools included the revised cognitive error of thought-action equivalence scale of Shafran et al. (1996), the Ahvaz Perfectionism Questionnaire, and the Maudsley Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Questionnaire (1977). The cognitive-behavioral therapy intervention was implemented in eight group sessions, once a week for 40 minutes for the experimental group. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance and post hoc tests. The findings showed that cognitive-behavioral therapy significantly reduced perfectionism and cognitive error of thought-action equivalence (moral dimensions, probability for self and probability for others) compared to the control group. The results of this study indicate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in reducing harmful cognitive variables in women with obsessive-compulsive disorder and can be used as an effective intervention in improving the symptoms of this disorder.
Hasan Mahjoob, Mitra Ezati, Mohammad Babaei,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to design a cognitive motivation model related to the financial decisions of university entrepreneurs at the University of Tehran. This study was conducted with a mixed exploratory approach in two stages. In the qualitative part, using content analysis of in-depth interviews and using MaxQDA software, data from interviews with 16 university entrepreneurs who were purposefully and snowball selected were analyzed. The qualitative results showed that "entrepreneurial financial decision-making motivation" was identified as the main factor and three components including "tolerance of ambiguity in financial decision-making", "financial self-efficacy" and "entrepreneurial cognitive motivation". In the quantitative part, the resulting model was tested with data from 125 entrepreneurs located in the Science and Technology Park of the University of Tehran (simple random sampling from 185 people) and using structural equations and PLS software. The results of the model analysis showed a good fit at three levels of measurement, structural and general. The GOF index was obtained as 0.643, which indicates the high explanatory power of the model.
Mrs. Saemeh Khalili-Torghabeh, Dr. Javad Salehi Fadardi, Dr. Zohreh Sepehri Shamloo, Dr. Seyed Kazem Rasoulzadeh Tabatabai,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Cognitive biases are influential factors in explaining illness anxiety disorder, and understanding the existing biases in this disorder can contribute to more effective treatments. This study was conducted to examine the biases of attention, interpretation, and memory in individuals with and without illness anxiety disorder. The sample consisted of 142 participants who voluntarily participated in the research from across the country. In this study, differences in information processing between the two groups were assessed using the Health Anxiety Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, and computer-based tasks measuring attention bias, interpretation, and memory. The data obtained from the research were analyzed using independent t-tests and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with the statistical software SPSS 26.The results showed that individuals with illness anxiety disorder had a greater tendency to focus on threatening cues compared to those without the disorder and interpreted ambiguous health-related information more negatively. However, no significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding positive interpretation bias. Additionally, individuals with illness anxiety recalled disease-related information more effectively. The findings indicate that individuals with illness anxiety display biases in attention, negative interpretation, and memory concerning health-related information. This research emphasizes the importance of identifying and targeting these biases in psychological treatments and suggests employing intervention methods such as cognitive bias modification to directly affect these biases due to their role in the formation and persistence of illness anxiety.
َazim Rasouli Manesh,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Experimental philosophy is a growing field in cognitive science and philosophical-psychological issues. The side-effect effect, or Knobe effect, is one of the well-known topics in this area. The Knobe effect refers to the idea that people often judge the harmful side effects of a moral agent’s behavior as intentional, while they typically consider the beneficial and constructive side effects of the same behavior as unintentional. In the research literature related to experimental philosophy, this asymmetry in judgment is referred to as the Knobe effect, as it was first observed by Joshua Knobe.
The aim of the present study is to evaluate Joshua Knobe’s experiment under different conditions and to assess its replicability using various scenarios. For this purpose, sixteen scenarios were prepared and distributed among 480 university students. Each scenario was presented to 26 students, and their opinions were collected. The collected data were analyzed using the chi-square test. The chi-square statistic at the 0.01 significance level was 106.87 for harm scenarios and 39.45 for help scenarios. These results indicate that the findings observed in Joshua Knobe’s original study were not replicated in the present research. Therefore, the replicability of the Knobe effect was not confirmed in this study.
Nasrin Bozorgpoor Niazi, Dr Fatemeh Shahabizadeh, Dr Mahboobeh Faramarzi,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
| This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of compassion-focused and mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), combined with physiotherapy, on psychological well-being and executive functions among elderly individuals suffering from chronic pain due to knee osteoarthritis. The research followed a quasi-experimental design with pretest, posttest, and follow-up assessments, along with a control group. The statistical population included elderly individuals over 60 years old diagnosed with chronic osteoarthritic pain, selected through purposive sampling. A total of 45 participants were randomly assigned to two intervention groups and one control group. The intervention groups received compassion-focused and mindfulness-based CBT, either with or without physiotherapy. Data were collected using Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale and the Stroop Executive Function Test and analyzed using multivariate covariance analysis and Bonferroni post hoc tests. Findings indicated that the interventions, particularly the combined CBT with physiotherapy, significantly improved components of psychological well-being (self-acceptance, positive relations with others, autonomy) and executive functions. These effects remained stable at follow-up. Although improvements were observed in personal growth, environmental mastery, and purpose in life, no significant differences were found between the two intervention groups in these dimensions. Effect size analysis suggested a large clinical impact. Overall, the results support the integration of psychotherapy and physiotherapy as an effective approach to promoting mental health and cognitive functioning in elderly patients with chronic pain. |
Adnan Vaezi, Hossein Bigdeli, Mohsen Ahmadi Tahor Soltani ,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
| The present study aimed to analyze the structural model of adolescents’ achievement goal orientation based on theory of mind and working memory within a cognitive-social framework. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), the study investigated the direct and indirect effects of theory of mind on the four dimensions of achievement goal orientation (mastery-approach, mastery-avoidance, performance-approach, and performance-avoidance), with working memory as a mediating variable. The research design was descriptive-correlational, and the statistical population included all high school students (second level) during the 2023–2024 academic year. A sample of 315 students was selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Achievement Goal Orientation Questionnaire (Elliot & McGregor, 2001), the Theory of Mind Questionnaire (Baron-Cohen, 2001), and the Working Memory Test (Daneman & Carpenter, 1980). SEM results revealed that theory of mind significantly predicted achievement goal orientations, both directly and indirectly through working memory. A significant positive relationship was also found between theory of mind and working memory. The model showed a good fit, underscoring the crucial role of cognitive-social processes in shaping adolescents’ academic motivation. |
Mojtaba Ahmadi, Associate Professor Gholamreza Chalabianloo, Associate Professor Reza Abdi,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Unified Protocol (UP) and transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) treatment on working memory and continuous attention in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The research design employed a quasi-experimental framework, featuring a pre-test and post-test design with two experimental groups and a control group. The statistical population consisted of patients diagnosed with GAD who sought treatment at clinics and specialized neuropsychiatry centers in Tehran during the first half of 2024. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a sample of 45 individuals (31 women and 14 men) was selected through purposive sampling and equally allocated (15 individuals in each group) into the UP intervention group, the combined UP and tDCS intervention group, and the waiting list group. The Structured Clinical Interview (SCID-V), the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), the Corsi Block Test (to assess working memory), and the Clock Test (to assess continuous attention) were utilized as assessment tools. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS-26 statistical software, employing analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). The findings indicated that the use of the UP protocol, both alone and in combination with tDCS, led to a significant improved in working memory and continuous attention (P<0.05). Furthermore, this study suggests that both UP intervention and the combined intervention (UP+tDCS) are effective approaches to improve working memory and continuous attention in GAD patients and may serve as a novel strategy for managing this disorder and improving executive functions.
Hava Mahmoudzadeh Kenari, Dr Afsaneh Khajevand Khoshli, Dr Javanshir Asadi,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) in adolescents is associated with maladaptive cognitive–emotional patterns, including thought–action fusion and intolerance of uncertainty, which can impair academic performance and interpersonal relationships. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of emotion-focused therapy and metacognitive therapy on these constructs in adolescent girls with OCD. The quasi-experimental study employed a pretest–posttest design with a control group and included 45 high school girls in Babolsar, selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to three groups of 15 participants each. Interventions consisted of eight weekly 90-minute group sessions. Data were collected using the Thought–Action Fusion Scale and the Intolerance of Uncertainty Questionnaire and analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Results indicated that both interventions significantly reduced thought–action fusion and intolerance of uncertainty compared to the control group, and pairwise comparisons showed that metacognitive therapy was more effective in reducing thought–action fusion, whereas emotion-focused therapy was relatively more effective in reducing outcomes related to intolerance of uncertainty. These findings suggest that targeted psychotherapeutic interventions can improve maladaptive cognitive–emotional patterns associated with OCD in adolescents and reduce anxiety and compulsive behaviors. The results provide guidance for selecting tailored treatments based on individual clinical needs and for designing school- and clinic-based intervention programs.
Dr Peyman Hatamian, Dr Ali Kazemi Rezaei,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
The present study was conducted with the aim of the effectiveness of metacognitive therapy on repetitive negative thoughts and anxiety sensitivity in students. the current study was semi-experimental with a pre-test, post-test and follow up. The statistical population included all the male students of Razi University of Kermanshah, 30 of whom were selected by purposive sampling method and using the entry criteria. They were assigned to two experimental and control groups (15 people in the experimental group and 15 people in the control group). The research tools included the repetitive thoughts questionnaire of McAvee et al (2014) and the anxiety sensitivity scale of Taylor and Cox (1998). The experimental group received the intervention in 8 sessions of 60 minutes and the control group did not receive such training. Finally, the data were analyzed by multivariate covariance analysis using SPSS version 24 software. the results of covariance analysis showed that there was a significant difference between the control and experimental groups in the post-test phase (p. 0.001). Therefore, it can be said that metacognitive therapy has been effective on negative recurring thoughts and anxiety sensitivity of students. based on the findings, it can be concluded that metacognitive therapy training can be effective in reducing the symptoms associated with repetitive negative and anxious thoughts. Therefore, it is suggested to use metacognitive interventions to reduce the mentioned symptoms.
Armin Hagnazariesfhlam, Nadia Abbasi Gharibeh,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the role of problematic coping style by mediating positive emotion regulation strategies in predicting protection and resilience against prolonged grief disorder.
The method of the present study was structural equation correlation. The research sample was students of Shahid Madani University of Azerbaijan in 1402-1403, which numbered 6700 people. Sampling in the study was available. The sample of the present study is 302 people. The research data collection tools included the Coping Strategies Questionnaire (CISS), the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ-36), and the Revised Prolonged Grief Scale (PG-13-R). For descriptive analysis of the research data, the SPSS26 program was used, and the AMOS24 program was used to perform structural equations.
The present study showed that there is a negative and significant correlation between the problematic coping style and the components of positive emotion regulation with prolonged grief. The research model has a favorable fit.
It can be concluded that training and using positive emotion regulation strategies such as positive reappraisal, positive reprogramming, and perspective-taking along with problem-focused coping style can increase resilience against prolonged grief disorder.
Ghazaleh Nikbin, Ali Akbar Saremi,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of psycho neurocognitive therapy on reduction of clinical symptoms and improvement of executive function (behavioral regulation and meta-cognition) in patients with major depression. The research method was conducted as a case study with a multiple baseline design. The study population included all patients referred to psychiatric and clinical psychology treatment centers in Mashhad with a diagnosis of major depression which among those 6 cases were selected through purposeful sampling who underwent psycho neurocognitive therapy for 12 sessions. The research tools included the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS), and Function Executive of Inventory Rating Behavior (BRIEF-A). Data were analyzed using graphical and pictorial analysis, percentage improvement indices, effect size, and Cohen's d. The results showed that psycho neurocognitive therapy significantly reduced clinical symptoms and improved executive functions (behavioral regulation and metacognition) in patients with major depression. The findings of this study indicate that psycho neurocognitive therapy can be used as an effective approach in improving the cognitive and psychological aspects of patients with major depression.
Mohammad Mahdi Zeidabadinejad, Noshin Noori, Leila Fatehi Khoshknabk, Sara Malakmohammadi, Ziba Poursadegا Gavgani,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
| The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in reducing cognitive fusion and interpersonal needs among students experiencing suicidal ideation. Employing a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments, participants were selected based on predefined criteria and randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received MBCT sessions, and data were analyzed using covariance analysis (ANCOVA). Results demonstrated that MBCT significantly decreased overall cognitive fusion, particularly the fusion component, and significantly reduced total scores of interpersonal needs, including perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness. Additionally, a significant reduction in the severity of suicidal thoughts was observed in the intervention group compared to controls, whereas changes in cognitive defusion were not statistically significant. Follow-up data indicated that the positive effects of the intervention were maintained to a satisfactory degree over time. These findings support the clinical utility of MBCT as an effective intervention to improve maladaptive cognitive and interpersonal processes associated with psychological vulnerability in at-risk students. The study underscores the potential of MBCT in suicide prevention and mental health promotion, and recommends further research with larger samples and integrative interventions to explore underlying mechanisms and long-term efficacy. |
Mahsa Rohani Otaghs Sara, Afsaneh Khajound Khoshli, Elnaz Pooaahmadi,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of schema therapy on marital conflict and perceived responsiveness of the spouse in women affected by infidelity. Marital infidelity is considered one of the most important crises in couples' relationships, which has widespread consequences, including the intensification of marital conflicts and damage to the spouse's perception and perceived responsiveness. In this regard, schema therapy, as an integrated and deep approach focusing on identifying and modifying early maladaptive schemas, can help rebuild couples' emotional and cognitive relationships. This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental method with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population included all married women referring to counseling centers and psychological clinics in Babol in the winter of 1403 who had reported experiencing infidelity of their spouse. Among them, 45 people were purposefully selected and randomly assigned to three groups: schema therapy, compassion therapy, and control. The schema therapy group received ten ninety-minute sessions of intervention, while the control group did not receive any intervention. The research instruments included the Marital Conflict Questionnaire and the Perceived Spouse Responsiveness Scale, and the data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance. The findings showed that schema therapy significantly reduced marital conflicts and improved perceived spouse responsiveness in women affected by infidelity. Also, the effectiveness of this intervention in reducing marital conflict was greater than compassion therapy. Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that schema therapy is an effective approach to improving the psychological consequences of infidelity and can be used as an efficient intervention in family counseling centers and in the treatment of disorders resulting from marital crises.
