Sayedeh Pegah Mousavipour; Sasan Bavi
Abstract
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) leads to depression and anxiety in women and often decreases the quality of life, social interaction, and occupational competency of patients. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of self-compassion therapy on perceived stress and anxiety sensitivity ...
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Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) leads to depression and anxiety in women and often decreases the quality of life, social interaction, and occupational competency of patients. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of self-compassion therapy on perceived stress and anxiety sensitivity in women with MS.Methods: In this field-based, quasi-experimental study, a pretest-posttest control group design was employed. The target population comprised female patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) who sought treatment at Ahvaz MS Society during a defined recruitment period (October 2022 - January 2023) in Ahvaz, Khuzestan Province, Iran. They were diagnosed with MS by psychiatrists and clinical specialists in clinical interviews. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit a sample of 40 female participants diagnosed with MS. Participants were subsequently randomized into an experimental group (n=20) and a control group (n=20). The study employed validated instruments, including the Perceived Stress Questionnaire and the Anxiety Sensitivity Index, to assess the relevant constructs. The analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was then conducted to examine group differences while controlling for potential confounding variables.Results: In the post-test, mean±SD for the perceived stress and anxiety in the experimental group was 24.80±5.08 and 20.32±3.17, demonstrating a significant difference as compared with the control group (43.81±3.57 and 51.07±51.07) (P=0.001). According to the results, self-compassion therapy managed to reduce perceived stress and anxiety sensitivity in the experimental group.Conclusion: Our results suggested that self-compassion therapy could effectively reduce stress and anxiety in women with MS. Therefore, therapy centers are recommended to adopt self-compassion therapy to alleviate the psychological symptoms of MS.
Farrokhlegha Najafzadeh; Sheida Ranjbari; Hassan Shafaei; Saeed Ghorbani
Abstract
Background: Physical activity (PA) and resilience may be effective in increasing the strength, vitality and productivity of the elderly. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to explore the correlation between participation in PA and psychological wellbeing among elderly women with considering the mediating ...
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Background: Physical activity (PA) and resilience may be effective in increasing the strength, vitality and productivity of the elderly. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to explore the correlation between participation in PA and psychological wellbeing among elderly women with considering the mediating role of resilience.Methods: This descriptive-correlational study consisted of 320 elderly women in Tehran, Iran in 2023 who were selected through convenience sampling technique. Standard Questionnaires were used for data collection. Pearson correlation test and the path analysis were used for data analysis.Results: The level of engagement in PA was below the average (256.47 out of 793). Also, PA had a significant correlation with psychological well-being (r=0.589, P<0.001). Additionally, PA had a significant correlation and resilience (r=0.714, P<0.001). Furthermore, resilience had a significant correlation with psychological well-being (r=0.625, P<0.001). Finally, resilience significantly mediated the correlation between PA and psychological well-being (Z=5.967, P<0.001).Conclusion: The findings of the study clearly demonstrated that active participation in PA plays a significant role in enhancing the mental well-being of older women. Therefore, it is highly recommended to prioritize the promotion of PA as the primary strategy to improve the psychological well-being of elderly women.
Fatemeh Jamshiddoust Miyanroudi; Mohammad Narimani; Mohammad Baher Talari
Abstract
Background: Drug use and addiction continue to be prevalent issues that often lead to heightened conflicts with the legal system, reduced public health, elevated mortality rates, missed chances for education and career advancement, and an upsurge in societal harm. This study aimed to investigate the ...
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Background: Drug use and addiction continue to be prevalent issues that often lead to heightened conflicts with the legal system, reduced public health, elevated mortality rates, missed chances for education and career advancement, and an upsurge in societal harm. This study aimed to investigate the effect of narrative therapy on the interpersonal needs of women with addictive tendencies.Methods: The study employed a semi-experimental approach including a pre-test, post-test, and a two-month follow-up period, with a control group. The study population consisted of women with substance abuse and addiction hospitalized, either selfreferral or by recommendation, in Parto Ardabil, the De-addiction camp for women , located in Ardabil province, Iran in 2021- 2022. A group of 24 people were chosen through the convenience sampling technique, and randomly divided into two separate groups for experimentation and control purposes; each group consisted of 12 people. The experiment began with a group of participants engaged in eight weekly sessions of successful narrative therapy, each lasting 45 minutes. The data were collected using an Interpersonal Need Questionnaire (INQ). The pre-test and post-test data were analyzed using SPSS version 24.Results: The results showed no significant difference between the pre-test period between the two groups of Narrative therapy (37.92±8.03) and Control (37.75±10.78) in the interpersonal needs (P=0.966). Also, there was a significant difference in the posttest stage between the two groups of Narrative therapy (32.25±5.91) and Control (37.25±5.91) by controlling the pre-test score (P=0.001). Also, the results showed that the difference between the pre-test and post-test periods in the Narrative therapy group was significant (P=0.001). However, in the Control group, no difference was found between the stages of the study (P=590).Conclusions: Our reults showed that the narrative therapy approach is effective in reducing the two scales of perception of burdensomeness and neutral belongingness in the component of interpersonal needs. Narrative therapy enables clients to take charge of their personal growth and life changes, enabling patients to be the primary decision-makers in their unique life stories and reducing the therapist’s authority.
Mahbobeh Azarnia; Farah Naderi; Behnam Makvandi
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer can cause significant emotional and psychological challenges for women and their families. The stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis can pave the way for the development of a variety of psychological disorders. This study investigated the potential mediating ...
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Background: Breast cancer can cause significant emotional and psychological challenges for women and their families. The stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis can pave the way for the development of a variety of psychological disorders. This study investigated the potential mediating role of physical health in the association between distress tolerance and metaemotional awareness in women diagnosed with breast cancer.Methods: This study employed a descriptive correlational design, enrolling a convenience sample of women diagnosed with breast cancer who were receiving treatment at the hematology department of Shafa Hospital in Ahvaz City, Iran, between March and August 2023. A sample of 207 patients was selected using convenience sampling method. Distress Tolerance Scale, Meta-Emotion Scale, and Physical Health Questionnaire were used to collect data. The hypothesized model was assessed using structural equation modeling (SEM) with maximum likelihood estimation. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS version 27 and Amos version 25.Results: The results showed a significant correlation between physical health and distress tolerance in women with breast cancer (P<0.001). The correlation between meta-emotion and distress tolerance was not significant (P<0.001). Moreover, the indirect correlation of meta-emotion to distress tolerance through the mediating role of physical health was significant (P=0.009).Conclusion: In women with breast cancer, physical health was significantly correlated with distress tolerance, while metaemotion had an indirect correlation mediated by physical health. These findings suggested that physical health is a crucial factor for distress tolerance, and warrants further investigation to better understand how meta-emotion and distress tolerance are connected through the pathway of physical health.
Hassan Shafaei; Farrokhlegha Najafzadeh; Masoud Shakki; Saeed Ghorbani
Abstract
Background: Engaging in regular exercise is widely recognized as a highly efficient method to mitigate age-related disorders. The present study aimed to investigate the correlations between physical activity and the quality of life, happiness, and depression levels in elderly women.Methods: In this study, ...
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Background: Engaging in regular exercise is widely recognized as a highly efficient method to mitigate age-related disorders. The present study aimed to investigate the correlations between physical activity and the quality of life, happiness, and depression levels in elderly women.Methods: In this study, a descriptive-correlational method was employed. The participants were 390 elderly women (aged 65 and above) who were chosen through a convenience sampling procedure in Tehran, Iran, in 2023. The Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (range of scores from 0 to 793), SF-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire (range of scores from 0 to 100), Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (range of scores from 0 to 87) and Geriatric Depression Scale (range of scores from 0 to 15) were used for measuring exercise activity, quality of life, happiness and depression, respectively. For data analysis, Pearson correlation test and regression analysis in SPSS version 26 and Lisrel 8.1 were applied.Results: Descriptive results showed that in general the level of physical activity in students was below average (114.09±15.78). Likewise, the quality of life was below average (39.83±7.40). Happiness was also below average (5.97±2.19). Finally, depression was higher than average (53.64±9.90). The findings indicated that physical activity has a direct association with the quality of life (β=0.356, T=5.137). Additionally, physical activity has a direct association with happiness (β=0.448, T=6.556). However, it was observed that physical activity has an indirect association with depression (β=-0.229, T=-3.671).Conclusions: The study results clearly indicated that engaging in physical activity significantly contributes to improving the overall wellbeing and health-related quality of life among elderly women. Thus, prioritizing the enhancement of physical and exercise routines is strongly advised as a primary approach to enhance wellbeing and health-related quality of life in elderly women.
Marjan Bahremand; Marzieh Talebzadeh Shoushtari; Fatemeh Sadat Marashian
Abstract
Background: Infertility is one of the disturbances that may occur in the lives of couples, leading to experiences of psychological distress and endangering interpersonal relationships and marital quality. This study investigated the efficacy of intensive shortterm dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP) in enhancing ...
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Background: Infertility is one of the disturbances that may occur in the lives of couples, leading to experiences of psychological distress and endangering interpersonal relationships and marital quality. This study investigated the efficacy of intensive shortterm dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP) in enhancing distress tolerance and marital quality of life among infertile women in Yazd, Iran.Methods: A semi-experimental pretest-posttest follow-up design with an experimental and control group (n=20 per group) was employed. Forty infertile women from the target population in Yazd, Iran (data collected in 2023) were randomly assigned into either the experimental group receiving eight 45-minute ISTDP sessions or the control group receiving no intervention. For data collection, questionnaires on distress tolerance and perceived relationship quality components were used. Data analysis was done by a repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SPSS version 27 was used.Results: According to the results, for distress tolerance, the mean score for the ISTDP group at the pretest was 31.55 (±13.14), which increased to 50.10 (±9.31) at posttest and 49.70 (±8.68) in the follow-up. The mean score for the control group at the pretest and posttest were 32.05 (±10.28) and 32.25 (±10.17), respectively. Moreover, for the marital quality of life, the mean score for the ISTDP group at the pretest was 70.40 (±19.47), which increased to 90.70 (±20.59) at the posttest and 91.15 (±20.75) at the follow-up. The mean score for the control group at the pretest and posttest was 66.85 (±21.75) and 65.85 (±20.66), respectively. There was a statistically significant within-group effect in the ISTDP group (P<0.01). The results revealed a statistically significant difference (P<0.001) between the intervention and control groups on distress tolerance and marital quality of life measures. The effectiveness of ISTDP in improving distress tolerance and marital quality of life was significant, and the treatment effects remained stable during the follow-up phase.Conclusions: It appears that ISTDP can be an effective step towards improving distress tolerance and marital quality of life. Therefore, ISTDP is considered a key and effective intervention.
Melika Noori; Reza Johari Fard
Abstract
Background: Vitiligo, a chronic depigmentary dermatosis, significantly compromises health-related quality of life (HRQoL), especially among women. Treatment adherence and depression are two important factors that can influence HRQoL in these patients. This study aimed to investigate the association between ...
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Background: Vitiligo, a chronic depigmentary dermatosis, significantly compromises health-related quality of life (HRQoL), especially among women. Treatment adherence and depression are two important factors that can influence HRQoL in these patients. This study aimed to investigate the association between treatment adherence, depression, and HRQoL in women with vitiligo.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 152 women with vitiligo who were selected using convenient sampling method from a dermatology clinic in Ahvaz, Iran, in 2023. The study employed the MOS 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Treatment Adherence Questionnaire (TAQ), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) to collect data. Pearson correlation coefficients assessed the relationships between variables, while stepwise regression analysis explored the independent contributions of these factors to the outcome variables.Results: Our results showed mean scores (SD) of 58.13 (11.50) for HRQoL, 49.70 (8.82) for treatment adherence, and 20.25 (4.47) for depression. Significant positive and negative correlations were observed between treatment adherence and HRQoL (r=0.44, P<0.001) and depression and HRQoL (r=-0.36, P<0.001), respectively. Furthermore, regression analysis confirmed that both treatment adherence (β=0.51, P<0.001) and depression (β=-0.57, P<0.001) were significantly associated with HRQoL in women with vitiligo.Conclusion: These results highlighted the importance of treatment adherence as a key factor influencing HRQoL in women with vitiligo. Additionally, the study underscores the negative impact of depression on HRQoL, suggesting the potential benefit of addressing both treatment adherence and depression in clinical management strategies to optimize HRQoL for women with vitiligo.
Fahimeh Zarean; Ali Sheykholeslami; Esmaeil Sadri Damirchi; Ali Rezaei Sharif
Abstract
Background: In addition to physical problems, infertile couples face psychological issues during treatment. This study aimed to investigate the effect of healing codes training on the sexual self-esteem of infertile women.Methods: The present study employed a quasi-experimental pre-test, post-test, follow-up ...
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Background: In addition to physical problems, infertile couples face psychological issues during treatment. This study aimed to investigate the effect of healing codes training on the sexual self-esteem of infertile women.Methods: The present study employed a quasi-experimental pre-test, post-test, follow-up design with a control group and an experimental group. Convenience sampling method was used to recruit forty infertile women satisfying the inclusion criteria from fertility treatment centers in Isfahan, Iran in 2023. Participants were randomly assigned into either the experimental group (n=20) or the control group (n=20). The experimental group received a standardized 14-week intervention consisting of weekly 90-minute training sessions focused on a specific therapeutic technique (healing codes). Data analysis was conducted using repeated-measures ANOVA.Results: The results demonstrated a statistically significant increase in sexual self-esteem scores in the experimental group compared with the control group (P=0.001) at both the post-test and follow-up phases. No significant difference was observed between the groups at pre-test. Throughout the study, the mean scores for the experimental group (post-test: 110.13±6.71, follow-up: 110.32±6.93) were significantly higher than the control group (post-test: 91.93±11.40, follow-up: 94.74±17.12). These findings suggested that healing codes training led to a significant difference in sexual self-esteem between the experimental and control groups (P=0.001).Conclusions: This study provided evidence that healing codes training leads to a significant improvement in sexual self-esteem among infertile women. These findings suggested that healing codes training may be a promising new approach to improve the psychological well-being of infertile women.
Abbas Saremi; Rahmatollah Moradzadeh
Abstract
Background: Inadequate lifestyle choices, such as insufficient physical activity, may be linked to adverse fertility outcomes. Given the profound influence of lifestyle on women’s reproductive health, this study was undertaken to compare the levels of physical activity and body composition among ...
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Background: Inadequate lifestyle choices, such as insufficient physical activity, may be linked to adverse fertility outcomes. Given the profound influence of lifestyle on women’s reproductive health, this study was undertaken to compare the levels of physical activity and body composition among fertile and infertile Iranian women in 2022.Methods: This cross-sectional study encompassed 653 fertile women (mean age: 32.58±5.99 years, mean body mass index (BMI): 25.7±3.64 kg/m²) and infertile women (mean age: 32.59±5.38 years, mean BMI: 26.4±5.6 kg/m²) who sought assistance at infertility centers in six provinces (Guilan, Markazi, Hamedan, Sistan, and Baluchestan, Isfahan, and Khuzestan) during the research period spanning 2021 to 2022. Participants completed questionnaires regarding their lifestyle habits and physical activity levels, body composition was also assessed. Chi-square and multiple logistic regression tests were employed for data analysis.Results: Fertile women exhibited superior physical activity (P=0.04) and a lower BMI (P=0.001) than their infertile counterparts. Women with a high level of physical activity (OR=4.42, P=0.004) were more likely to experience infertility. Inactive women who spent more than 300 minutes per day sitting were 2.07 times more susceptible to fertility complications than their physically active peers (moderate activity) (OR=2.07, P=0.001).Conclusion: Given the simultaneous increase in obesity, inactivity, and infertility among Iranian women, it is imperative to place greater emphasis on lifestyle habits, including appropriate physical activity, to prevent and potentially treat infertility.
Fahimeh Rahmati; Seyed Esmaeil Mosavi; Zahra Yousefi
Abstract
Background: Numerous young women struggle to envision a fulfilling and intimate marriage due to encountering significant challenges during their childhood and/or experiencing multiple unsuccessful relationships in adulthood. This study investigated the influence of life scripts, as defined by transactional ...
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Background: Numerous young women struggle to envision a fulfilling and intimate marriage due to encountering significant challenges during their childhood and/or experiencing multiple unsuccessful relationships in adulthood. This study investigated the influence of life scripts, as defined by transactional analysis theory, on the marriage readiness of female university students of marriageable age in Isfahan, Iran.Methods: This qualitative case study utilized a non-probabilistic, purposive sampling method to select its participants from among all female university students of marriageable age in Isfahan, Iran, between July and September 2022. The sample comprised 15 individuals, determined through theoretical saturation. Data collection was conducted via semi-structured interviews, encompassing demographic information and life script identification. Triangulation involving the researcher, supervisor, and peer advisors was employed to ensure rigor. Manifest and latent content analyses were applied to the data derived from the participant’s responses and narratives using MAXQDA 2022.Results: Analysis identified five predominant life scripts among female university students who exhibited readiness for marriage: “don’t be a child,” “please others,” “be perfect,” “don’t think,” and “try hard.” Conversely, the leading life scripts of students lacking marriage readiness were “don’t grow up,” “don’t get close,” “don’t be important,” and “be perfect.”Conclusion: The findings suggested that life scripts significantly influence marriage readiness and partner selection among female students of marriageable age. Modifying these scripts may enhance these individuals’ preparedness for marriage.
Abdullah Azhdari; Eghbal Zarei; Kourosh Mohammadi
Abstract
Background: Light triad traits play a significant role in predicting one’s mental well-being and can greatly influence interpersonal relationships and overall happiness. This study aimed to assess the correlation between marital adjustment, marital satisfaction and quality of life in alignment ...
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Background: Light triad traits play a significant role in predicting one’s mental well-being and can greatly influence interpersonal relationships and overall happiness. This study aimed to assess the correlation between marital adjustment, marital satisfaction and quality of life in alignment with light triad traits.Methods: Structural equation modeling was used for data analysis. The study population included women living in Bastak, Iran in 2023. A total of 270 participants were selected through convenience sampling method, and completed Light Triad Scale, Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (EMSS), and WHO Quality of Life-BREF questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 and Amos version 24, with both descriptive and inferential analysis conducted through canonical correlation, regression analysis, and structural model testing.Results: There was a significant and positive relationship between clear personality traits and compatibility in married couples (β=0.564, P<0.001). Furthermore, the association between adaptation in married couples and quality of life (β=0.307) was also statistically significant at the P<0.001 level. Similarly, the association between marital satisfaction in married couples and clear personality traits (β=0.586) was statistically significant (P<0.001). Also, the association between marital satisfaction in married couples and quality of life was both positive and significant (β=0.215, P<0.001).Conclusions: Women’s marital satisfaction model, which is based on positive personality traits, highlights the significance of taking into account personality traits and their alignment when examining satisfaction in relationships. This suggests that partners with well-adjusted personality traits and compatible differences can contribute to higher levels of satisfaction within a marriage.
Ameneh Etemadi Asl; Sasan Bavi; Reza Johari Fard
Abstract
Background: Women diagnosed with breast cancer may be more inclined to take preventive measures if they believe they have control over their health. This study explored the mediating influence of cancer self-efficacy in the association between health locus of control (HLC) and health-promoting behaviors ...
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Background: Women diagnosed with breast cancer may be more inclined to take preventive measures if they believe they have control over their health. This study explored the mediating influence of cancer self-efficacy in the association between health locus of control (HLC) and health-promoting behaviors in women with breast cancer.Method: In this descriptive-correlational study, a purposive sampling method was employed to select 282 women diagnosed with breast cancer in Ahvaz, Iran, between November 2021 and June 2022. Participants were requested to complete the Health- Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP-II), Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (MHLC), and Cancer Behavior Inventory (CBI). The data was then analyzed using path analysis conducted with SPSS Amos version 25.Results: The results indicated a significant correlation between cancer self-efficacy and health-promoting behaviors among women with breast cancer (P=0.001). A significant correlation was also between health-promoting behaviors and HLC in women (P=0.001). According to the results, the mediating role of cancer self-efficacy in the relationship between HLC and healthpromoting behaviors was significant in women with breast cancer (P=0.001).Conclusion: Consequently, the research model exhibited a satisfactory fit. This study’s findings highlighted the influence of cancer self-efficacy in facilitating the impact of HLC on enhancing health-promoting behaviors in women with breast cancer.
Afsaneh Hosseini Geravandi; Parviz Asgari; Zahra Yousefi
Abstract
Background: The escalating number of visits to family therapy centers and the increasing divorce rates indicate a profound crisis in relationship status, resulting in family discord and divorce. This study endeavored to scrutinize the elements of female attractiveness in couple relationships as perceived ...
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Background: The escalating number of visits to family therapy centers and the increasing divorce rates indicate a profound crisis in relationship status, resulting in family discord and divorce. This study endeavored to scrutinize the elements of female attractiveness in couple relationships as perceived by family therapists with expertise in the field.Methods: This was a qualitative study employing a content analysis design. The statistical population encompassed all expert family therapists in Ahvaz, Iran in 2022. From this pool, eight therapists who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected as the sample. The research methodology employed content analysis, and data were collected through quasi-experimental interviews.Results: The outcomes revealed that the central and organizing categories consist of: 1. Personality Attractiveness (comprising self-esteem, agreeableness, stability, and conscientiousness as organizing codes). 2. Emotional attractiveness (with organizing codes related to positive emotional inhibition and positive emotional manifestation). 3. Cognitive attractiveness (characterized by cognitive capabilities and cognitive development as organizing codes). 4. Physical attractiveness (divided into sexual physical Attractiveness and non-sexual physical Attractiveness). 5. Relationship Attractiveness (encompassing family attractiveness, family relation attractiveness, emotional relation attractiveness, and spousal praise).Conclusion: Female Attractiveness is a multifaceted construct, and the absence of any of its dimensions can undermine its role in couple relationships. Therefore, adhering to these five dimensions can fortify marital bonds.
Mehrnaz Goodarzian; Kourosh Mohammadi; Azita Amirfakhraei
Abstract
Background: Patients with breast cancer (BC) experience psychological challenges necessitating therapeutic interventions. This study evaluated the efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in influencing health-related locus of control and emotional regulation in women diagnosed with BC.Methods: ...
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Background: Patients with breast cancer (BC) experience psychological challenges necessitating therapeutic interventions. This study evaluated the efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in influencing health-related locus of control and emotional regulation in women diagnosed with BC.Methods: This semi-experimental research, employing a pre-test, post-test, and control group design, was conducted among women with BC receiving care at health centers in Dezful City, Iran in 2019. Forty participants were selected through convenience sampling and subsequently randomized via lottery into experimental and control groups, each comprising 20 individuals. The experimental group underwent an eight-session ACT-based treatment, with one 90-minute session per week. Assessment instruments utilized in this study included Wallston’s health-related locus of control questionnaire and Garnefski’s cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using ANCOVA and SPSS version 24.Results: No significant differences were observed between the groups in the pre-test concerning health-related locus of control and emotional regulation. In the post-test, the mean±SD score for the health-related locus of control in the ACT group was 61.80±7.23, demonstrating a significant difference compared to the control group (47.94±6.11) (P<0.001). Emotional regulation mean scores in the experimental and control groups were 87.35±9.28 and 59.74±7.38, respectively, signifying statistical significance (P=0.005). ACT significantly enhanced health-related locus of control and emotional regulation in women diagnosed with BC (P<0.001).Conclusion: ACT effectively enhances health-related locus of control and emotional regulation in women with BC. Healthcare professionals and therapists may consider incorporating ACT into their comprehensive treatment strategies to augment healthrelated locus of control and emotional regulation in this patient population.
Parvin Mostafazadeh; Nemat Sotoudehasl; Raheb Ghorbani
Abstract
Background: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by an excessive preoccupation with daily life occurrences and situations. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Metacognitive Therapy (MCT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in reducing worry and improving the quality ...
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Background: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by an excessive preoccupation with daily life occurrences and situations. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Metacognitive Therapy (MCT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in reducing worry and improving the quality of life among women diagnosed with GAD.Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted using a pretest and a 3-month follow-up design. The study participants were women with GAD selected through convenient sampling in Tehran, Iran, from September to November 2022. According to the research design, the participants were divided into experimental and control groups (n=17 in each group). The experimental group underwent a 10-session treatment protocol based on ACT, while the control group did not receive any specific treatment. Data collection was accomplished using the Pennsylvania State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) to assess worry, the Brief Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) to measure generalized anxiety, and the Quality of Life Questionnaire (QOL) to assess the quality of life. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, utilizing analysis of variance and repeated measures at a significance level of 0.05.Results: Significant differences were observed between the experimental and follow-up phases among the ACT, MCT, and Control groups concerning environmental health variables (P=0.04). The study’s results indicated significant differences in anxiety variables between the three groups (ACT, MCT, and Control) during the experimental and follow-up phases (P=0.001). No significant differences were noted between the ACT, MCT, and control groups regarding changes in physical health at the post-test (P=0.2) and follow-up (P=0.1) phases. In addition, significant differences were found among the three groups (ACT, MCT, and Control) regarding changes in mental health during the pretest and follow-up (P=0.001). This study also revealed significant disparities in social health variables among the three groups (ACT, MCT, and Control) (P=0.001).Conclusion: In summary, this study suggested that fostering positive thoughts about worrying may contribute to reducing the severity of anxiety disorders in adults. Intriguingly, mindfulness and a focus on the present moment did not appear to be significantly correlated with mild anxiety experiences.
Leila Eskandari; Farzaneh Hooman; Parviz Asgari; Marjan Alizadeh
Abstract
Background: Children’s behavioral issues may arise from maternal depression, which can also hinder a child’s mental development compared to their peers. This study aimed to assess the correlation between maternal cognitive fusion, maternal depression, and children’s management of sadness ...
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Background: Children’s behavioral issues may arise from maternal depression, which can also hinder a child’s mental development compared to their peers. This study aimed to assess the correlation between maternal cognitive fusion, maternal depression, and children’s management of sadness in students with specific learning disorders (SLD).Methods: The statistical population for this descriptive-correlational study included all male and female fourth-graders and fifthgraders with SLD, along with their mothers, in Karaj, Alborz Province, Iran, in 2022. A multistage cluster sampling technique was employed to select a research sample of 252 individuals. The research utilized the Children’s Sadness Management Scale (CSMS), Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire (CFQ), and Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI-13) as assessment tools. Data analysis involved Pearson’s correlation coefficient, multiple regression, and an artificial neural network (ANN). The data were ultimately analyzed using SPSS version 27 and MATLAB-2019.Results: The mean and standard deviation (SD) for maternal depression, maternal cognitive fusion, and children’s sadness management were 27.96±6.73, 50.61±10.49, and 15.90±4.43, respectively. The research results indicated a positive and significant association between maternal cognitive fusion and children’s sadness management (P<0.001). Conversely, there was a negative and significant association between maternal depression and children’s sadness management (P<0.001). According to the ANN findings, maternal depression exhibited a stronger correlation with children’s sadness management.Conclusion: The findings highlighted that maternal depression exhibits the most substantial correlation with children’s sadness management. Consequently, the development of training programs and workshops targeting the mitigation of maternal depression for mothers of children with SLD is recommended.
Salar Doosti; Farzaneh Hooman; Saeed Bakhtiarpour; Sasan Bavi
Abstract
Background: Raising disabled children can lead to significant strain and psychological distress within families, particularly for mothers as primary caregivers. This study aimed to explore the mediating role of parenting stress in the relationship between quality of life and social support in mothers ...
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Background: Raising disabled children can lead to significant strain and psychological distress within families, particularly for mothers as primary caregivers. This study aimed to explore the mediating role of parenting stress in the relationship between quality of life and social support in mothers of disabled children.Methods: This descriptive-correlational study was conducted in 2022. The study population comprised all mothers of disabled children in Kermanshah, Iran. A purposive sampling method was utilized, selecting 379 individuals for the research sample. Data collection tools included the Quality of Life Scale, Social Support Inventory, and Parental Stress Questionnaire. The results were analyzed using SPSS version 27, AMOS version 25, and structural equation modeling (SEM).Results: The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between social support and mothers’ quality of life (r=0.37; P<0.01). Conversely, a significant negative correlation was observed between social support and parenting stress (r=-0.63; P<0.01), as well as between parenting stress and mothers’ quality of life (r=-0.41; P<0.01). Moreover, the indirect pathway from social support to quality of life, mediated by parenting stress, was significant (P=0.010). The model fit results showed a good fit for our model (CFI=0.98; NFI=0.97; RMSEA=0.065).Conclusion: The proposed model showed a good fit. Consequently, enhancing social support and reducing parenting stress may improve the quality of life for mothers of disabled children.
Sakineh Ameri; Fatemeh Sadat Marashian
Abstract
Background: Marital dissatisfaction in women can lead to persistent adverse effects and psychological disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples on psychological distress and marital disaffection in women traumatized by their husbands’ extramarital ...
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Background: Marital dissatisfaction in women can lead to persistent adverse effects and psychological disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples on psychological distress and marital disaffection in women traumatized by their husbands’ extramarital affairs.Methods: This semi-experimental research was conducted using a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The study population included all women visiting the Mehravaran Counseling Center in Ahvaz, Khuzestan Province, Iran in 2022, who were dealing with their husbands’ extramarital affairs. After convenience sampling, 30 individuals were selected and subsequently divided into the experimental and control groups randomly following the pretest. In this process, the experimental group underwent nine weekly 60-minute sessions of EFT for couples, while the control group received no interventions. During the post-test phase, all participants completed research questionnaires. The research tools comprised the Marital Disaffection Scale and Psychological Distress Scale. The data obtained were analyzed using ANCOVA in SPSS version 24.Results: The mean (±SD) of psychological distress and marital disaffection in the control group were 23.13±3.64 and 33.13±4.29 in the pretest and 23.67±3.67 and 33.53±4.17 in the post-test. Meanwhile, the mean (±SD) of psychological distress and marital disaffection were 23.40±3.71 and 33.80±4.09 in the experimental group during the pretest and 18.53±3.96 and 28.00±3.11 in the post-test. The results indicated that EFT for couples alleviated psychological distress (P=0.001) and marital disaffection (P=0.001) in women traumatized by their husbands’ extramarital affairs.Conclusion: Given the effectiveness of EFT in reducing marital disaffection and psychological distress in women traumatized by their husbands’ extramarital affairs, it is recommended to provide couples with instruction in emotion-focused strategies to reconstruct and enhance their relationships. Engaging in such an approach can help reinforce positive beliefs and effectively address the psychological challenges experienced by women traumatized by their husbands’ extramarital involvements.
Sareh Mousavi; Shokoufeh Mousavi; Mahmoud Reza Shahsavari
Abstract
Background: Female heads of households often experience a diminished quality of life due to financial, social, and psychological challenges. This research aimed to investigate the impact of Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) on the distress tolerance and resilience of female heads of households.Methods: ...
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Background: Female heads of households often experience a diminished quality of life due to financial, social, and psychological challenges. This research aimed to investigate the impact of Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) on the distress tolerance and resilience of female heads of households.Methods: This study utilized a quasi-experimental design with pre-and post-tests, incorporating a control group. The study population encompassed all female heads of households under the support of the welfare centers of Aligudarz, Lorestan Province, Iran, in 2022. By convenience sampling, forty eligible individuals were selected and subsequently randomly assigned into an experimental and control groups (20 women per group). The intervention group received eight weekly 90-minute sessions of CFT, while the control group did not receive any interventions. Following the sessions, both groups underwent post-tests under the same conditions. The Resilience and Distress Tolerance Scale were administered to both groups as pretests before the training intervention. Data analysis was conducted using ANCOVA in SPSS version 27.Results: The mean±SD scores for distress tolerance and resilience were 39.10±4.37 and 59.30±5.29 on the pretest in the CFT intervention group, respectively, and 38.55±4.56 and 58.85±6.26 in the control group. In the post-test stage, the mean±SD score for distress tolerance in the CFT intervention group was 54.20±4.19, while in the control group, it remained at 38.55±4.56 (P<0.001). Furthermore, in the post-test stage, the mean±SD score for resilience in the intervention group was 89.35±8.35, compared to 58.85±6.26 in the control group (P<0.001). According to the results, CFT intervention significantly improved distress tolerance and resilience among female heads of households (P<0.001).Conclusion: Compassion-focused therapy effectively enhanced distress tolerance and resilience in female heads of households. It is recommended that government officials take necessary steps and implement plans to provide CFT sessions for female heads of households.
Madeline A Foster; Lisa McDermott; Alec Knight
Abstract
Background: Each year, twice as many women than men are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). As there is no known cure for AD, preventing it has become a vital public health issue. One lifestyle intervention that may reduce the risk of AD is physical activity (PA). This scoping review aimed ...
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Background: Each year, twice as many women than men are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). As there is no known cure for AD, preventing it has become a vital public health issue. One lifestyle intervention that may reduce the risk of AD is physical activity (PA). This scoping review aimed to examine the existing literature on PA and AD risk to identify whether PA has a sex-specific effect on AD risk in women.Methods: A scoping review was conducted based on PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Cochrane recommended databases, MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO were searched via Ovid between May and June 2022. Articles were screened at the title, abstract, and full-text level for inclusion criteria (female participants, results reported by sex, PA, or exercise reported separately from other variables, and participants with no known cognitive impairment). For each study, sample characteristics, PA and AD measures, follow-up times, and results were summarized.Results: Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, and their results were assessed for quality using the Cochrane GRADE tool. Most studies (80%) reported significant results for females. When broken down by sex, six studies reported differences in result significance with some studies finding that PA can reduce AD risk in women but not in men. Increased weekly PA sessions, duration, and intensity all significantly reduced AD risk for women.Conclusion: While there are some limitations, including reliance on self-report, short follow-up times, and variations in AD and PA measures, the results have important implications. Findings may facilitate the development of tailored interventions that target women with unique lifestyle recommendations and inspire future research on the specifics of PA type, timing, and duration.
Mohammad Hossein Pourfereydoun; Zahra Dasht Bozorgi
Abstract
Background: Mastectomy damages self-concept and sexual identity and also increases the risk of depression due to changes in the physical appearance of patients. The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CRT) on psychological distress and self-compassion ...
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Background: Mastectomy damages self-concept and sexual identity and also increases the risk of depression due to changes in the physical appearance of patients. The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CRT) on psychological distress and self-compassion in mastectomized women with depression.Methods: The research was a quasi-experimental study based on a pretest-posttest design with control and experimental groups. The study population consisted of mastectomized women with depression who visited counseling and psychological services centers and clinics in 2021, of whom 40 patients were selected through purposive sampling. The participants were randomly assigned into two groups of 20 members using a table of random numbers. Participants in the experimental group attended ten 90-minute sessions of CRT (two sessions per week). The research instruments included the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) and Self-Compassion Scale (SCS). The data were statistically analyzed using analysis of covariance in SPSS version 19.Results: The findings indicated that there was no significant difference between the two groups in the pretest in terms of psychological distress and self-compassion. The mean±SD of psychological distress in the posttest of the CRT group was 15.26±3.43, which was significantly different from the control group (19.26±3.65) (P<0.001). The mean±SD of self-compassion in the experimental and control groups were 79.13±7.38 and 71.67±8.39, respectively, which was statistically significant (P=0.005). In other words, CRT significantly reduced psychological distress and increased self-compassion in mastectomized women with depression (P<0.001).Conclusion: The study findings suggested the effectiveness of CRT in reducing psychological distress and increasing the selfcompassion of mastectomized women with depression. Therapists and health professionals are hence recommended to apply CRT, along with other interventions and therapies, to reduce psychological distress and increase the self-compassion of such patients.
Maryam Abdoshahi
Abstract
Background: The effects of participation in sports and physical activities on mental health in menopausal women have been less examined. Therefore, the goal of the current research was to further investigate the effects of participation in sports and physical activities using a Pilates training intervention ...
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Background: The effects of participation in sports and physical activities on mental health in menopausal women have been less examined. Therefore, the goal of the current research was to further investigate the effects of participation in sports and physical activities using a Pilates training intervention on mental health and happiness among menopausal women.Methods: The current research used an experimental method with pre-test and post-test using a control group. Thirty-two menopausal women from Tehran (district 5), Iran, in 2022, who were chosen using a convenience sampling method, participated in the study. The intervention group (n=16) was exposed to three months of Pilates exercises, while those in the control group (n=16) performed their regular daily activities. Mental health and happiness were measured using The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 and The Oxford-Happiness Inventory, respectively, prior to and following the intervention. Independent t-test and analysis of covariance using SPSS version 26 were utilized to analyze the data.Results: The results showed similar mental health and happiness within both groups at baseline. Moreover, the results revealed that our sample had medium to high symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress at pretest. Furthermore, the participants in the intervention group reported lower depression (P<0.001), anxiety (P<0.001), and stress (P<0.001) as well as higher happiness (P<0.001) following the intervention than the control group.Conclusions: Based on our findings, it is recommended that menopausal women participate in various sports training courses such as Pilates to improve their mental health status.
Sedigheh Sakkaki; Farah Naderi; Fariba Hafezi
Abstract
Background: The diagnosis of cervical cancer significantly affects the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of women. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and experiential avoidance (EA) with HRQOL, mediated by depression in women with cervical cancer.Methods: ...
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Background: The diagnosis of cervical cancer significantly affects the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of women. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and experiential avoidance (EA) with HRQOL, mediated by depression in women with cervical cancer.Methods: This descriptive-correlational study selected 261 cervical cancer cases in Mashhad, Iran in 2021, using purposive sampling from October 10, 2021 to December 24, 2021. The research tools include the SF-36 Questionnaire, the Chalder Fatigue Scale, the Brief Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire, and Beck Depression Inventory. Data analysis was done using Pearson correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling in SPSS version 27 and AMOS version 24.Results: The results indicated that all direct paths, with the exception of CFS, significantly correlated with HRQOL (P<0.001). Depression mediated the significant indirect paths of CFS to HRQOL and the significant relationship between EA and HRQOL (P<0.001).Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that CFS and EA were negatively related to HRQOL in women with cervical cancer. Moreover, depression mediated the relationship of CFS and EA with HRQOL.
Rohollah Sharifi Nejad Rodani; Fatemeh Sadat Marashian; Masoud Shahbazi
Abstract
Background: The stability and quality of emotional relationships can directly and indirectly affect the mental and physical health of women. This survey was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Schema Therapy (ST) on psychological well-being and cognitive ...
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Background: The stability and quality of emotional relationships can directly and indirectly affect the mental and physical health of women. This survey was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Schema Therapy (ST) on psychological well-being and cognitive distortion in single women with Love Trauma Syndrome (LTS).Methods: This study was a quasi-experimental designed by pre-test-post-test with a control group. The statistical population included all single women with LTS visiting counseling centers in Ahvaz, Iran in 2022. The statistical sample consisted of 45 participants who were selected using purposive sampling and were assigned into two experimental groups and one control group via simple random allocation. The first and second experimental groups received ACT (eleven 90-minute sessions per week), and ST (ten 90-minute sessions per week), respectively, while the control group was on the waiting list. The research instruments included the Psychological Well-being (PWB) Scale and the Interpersonal Cognitive Distortion Scale (ICDS). Analysis of covariance in SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis.Results: The results showed that ACT and ST significantly influenced the psychological well-being and cognitive distortion of single women with LTS (P<0.001). The mean and standard deviation (SD) of psychological well-being and cognitive distortion were 60.10±7.76 and 58.87±7.42 in the pretest in the ACT group, whereas it was 70.33±8.16 and 65.80±8.31 in the posttest. Moreover, the mean and SD of psychological well-being and cognitive distortion were 48.00±5.25 and 50.07±4.89 in the pretest in the ST group, whereas it was 39.33±5.16 and 44.00±4.48 in the posttest. ACT had a more significant effect on the psychological well-being and cognitive distortion of participants than ST (P<0.001).Conclusion: In conclusion, ACT was better suited for addressing the psychological well-being and cognitive distortion of single women with LTS. Based on these results and considering the role of ACT and ST, it is possible to help women with LTS enjoy psychological well-being by holding ACT and ST sessions.
Nahide Naderi Moghaddam; Amir Panah Ali; Ali Naghi Aghdasi; Masoud Hejazi
Abstract
Background: The study focuses on the increasing rates of divorce and the need for effective therapeutic interventions to reduce marital conflict and emotional divorce. The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in reducing marital conflict and emotional ...
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Background: The study focuses on the increasing rates of divorce and the need for effective therapeutic interventions to reduce marital conflict and emotional divorce. The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in reducing marital conflict and emotional divorce among women who are facing divorce and seeking services at Zanjan family counseling centers, Zanjan, Iran.Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted in the second half of 2021. A convenience sampling method was used to recruit 20 participants from Zanjan family counseling centers, who were randomly allocated into two groups. The treatment group received ten sessions of 60 minutes twice a week (5 weeks) of acceptance and commitment therapy. The Marital Conflict Questionnaire and Emotional Divorce Scale were used as research tools to measure pretest and posttest scores. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance in SPSS version 24 to compare the mean scores for marital conflict and emotional divorce between the treatment and control groups.Results: The findings of the study revealed that acceptance and commitment therapy was effective in reducing both marital conflict and emotional divorce scores in the treatment group compared to the control group. The mean score for marital conflict decreased significantly from 172.50±18.23 to 147.25±15.68 in the treatment group (P<0.001), while the control group showed no significant changes. The mean score for emotional divorce also decreased significantly from 2.35±16 to 1.93±12 in the treatment group (P<0.001), while the control group again showed no significant changes.Conclusion: This research demonstrated that acceptance and commitment therapy is an effective psychotherapy for reducing marital conflict and emotional divorce in women at risk of divorce who referred to family counseling centers. The findings of this study have practical implications for counseling settings.
