Fatemeh Meghdadi Chavari, Mahdi Khanjani, Hossein Eskandari,
Volume 23, Issue 90 (6-2024)
Abstract
Aim: The research aimed to study the psychological consequences of child marriage among girls through a phenomenological approach and semi-structured interviews. Methods: Twenty women from Gilan, Khoozestan, Sistan and Baloochistan, Khorasan and Yazd province who experienced child marriage and their current ages were less than 50 years old were selected through purposive sampling. Interviews and observations were conducted by traveling to each province. Colaizzi method was used in order to analysis data. Results: Results were included of 5 main themes and 15 sub themes in psychological consequences. Main themes are crashed ego, psychic traumas, negative emotions, immaturity and personal maturity. Conclusion: The results showed that negative psychological consequences of child marriage are much more than their positive ones.
Somayeh Parsirad, Ebrahim Naeimi, Ali Bahadori Jahromi, Mohsen Ebrahimi,
Volume 23, Issue 91 (11-2024)
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of the family counselors of the judiciary system to identify the effective features of the family counseling in reducing family disputes and strengthening the family. Methods: This was a phenomenonological type of qualitative research. The participants in the research included 20 people (13 women and 7 men) whoe were family counselors at the judiciary system in several Iranian cities during 1399-1400 Persian calendar. Participants were selected using the purposeful sampling method according the entry criteria. Sampling continued until saturation was reached. In order to analyze the data, first, the data were recorded and coded, then analyzed using Van Menen's interpretive phenomenological analysis method. Results: The findings of the research included 6 main themes and 33 sub-themes of counselors' experiences as effective therapeutic features. The main themes obtained include: goals pursued to reduce family disputes and strengthening the family, characteristics of counselors, facilitating and promoting measures of counseling alongside the court proceeding, failure of resistance in clients beside the court, interventions to achieve change in order to reduce family disputes and strengthen the family and the characteristics of the counseling location in order to increase the effectiveness of the counseling near the court. Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that the counselors of the judiciary system who have a lower divorce rate at the end of the counseling sessions and are more successful in solving family problems than their other colleagues, have personal characteristics and principles governing their meetings as such that it provides safe and favorable conditions for this group of clients and paves the way for raising issues, listening to them, and ultimately resolving their concerns
Masoumeh Bagheri, Marziyeh Shahryari, Mehran Bondori, Banoo Beigy Malekabad,
Volume 23, Issue 91 (11-2024)
Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this research is to identify the attitude of family counselors towards the reasons and contexts of the formation of parallel relationships among couples in city of Ahvaz. Methods: This research was conducted using qualitative approach and grounded theory method through theoretical and purposeful sampling, in which 20 counselors of public and private family centers participated in in-depth interviews. The theoretical sampling process continued until the data saturation stage was reached. The collected data were analyzed using open, axial and selective coding. Results: The emerged model includes three dimensions of conditions, action-interactions, and consequences. The "conditions" dimension includes the deterioration of public attitudes and opinions, virtual space facilitating extra-marital relationships, sensationalism and lack of body care, couples' unwillingness to talk to each other, not maintaining the boundaries of personal life, immersion in family roles and social, imposition of choice and hidden protest, experience of modern love and marital frustration, not being able to cope, lack of satisfaction with married life, "action-interaction" dimension, including trying to relieve the significant other, "consequences" dimension, including the elimination of the culture of shame and modesty, self-deception and other insidious deception, fighting with oneself and obsessively searching for love, social isolation and the prevalence of social harms, which are formed around the core category of "hidden objection to life without love". Conclusion: Given that, parallel relationships are a danger to the health and safety of the family and society. Therefore, by using the concepts extracted in this research, experts can identify the platforms for the formation of parallel relationships and examine the strategies, and it can be a guide in couple therapy and pre-marital counseling.
Ebrahim Fehli,
Volume 23, Issue 91 (11-2024)
Abstract
Aim: The current research aimed to conduct a comparative study of the meaning of life in atheistic existentialism and the Quranic view of Allameh Tabataba’i. Methods: This research was carried out with a qualitative approach and the thematic analysis method of Brown and Clark and the comparative method of Brady. The research population includes all the documents, written sources and articles related to the subject and the purposeful sampling method and the adequacy of the sample size of the studied documents was obtained through the data saturation method. The research tool was document analysis, whose validity was examined by the Lincoln and Goba method concerning four criteria of credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability, and the data were analyzed by the thematic analysis method. Results: In the analysis of the themes, it was found that the atheistic existentialism and the Qur'anic view of Allameh Tabataba'i could be investigated and recognized with 3 themes respectively in the fields of epistemology, cosmology and anthropology. Conclusion: The results indicated a consensus between the two perspectives on humans' existential need for the meaning of life and the emergence of a psychological crisis in case of any disruption in its realization. Atheistic existentialism and the Quranic view of Allameh Tabataba’i were significantly different in the possibility of meaning achievement, the ways of acquiring meaning, and whether to find or construct meaning (epistemology), the purposefulness of the world and the existence of the resurrection (cosmology), and human purpose in the world, the pre-birth essence, existential anxiety, and the existence of the soul and the inherent value of human (anthropology). These fundamental differences can be attributed to the human- and God-centered perspectives in atheistic existentialism and the Quranic view of Allameh Tabataba’i, respectively.
Seyyed Behrooz Hashemi Tonekaboni, Mohammad Hossein Zarghami, Davoud Nodehi,
Volume 23, Issue 91 (11-2024)
Abstract
Aim: The success and failure of marriage plays a fundamental role in well-being of society and individuals. Therefore, it is highly desirable to have a method to evaluate and predict the future of a marriage. As such, the aim of the present study is to validate Gottman's (2012) “success and failure in marriage questionnaires”. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study and the research design used a descriptive-correlation and test validation. Modern method of multivariate item-response theory was used for data analysis. The questionnaires used in this research were for validation, criticism, contempt, defensiveness, stonewalling, and attitude about Gottman’s past (1401). Results: In this study, the best model for factor analysis was determined to be the item-response multivariate factor analysis method and with the aid of this model, two dimensions were reported for the Gottman questionnaires. Also, the items factor loadings, the parameters of the Item-response theory and the analysis of the Items were reported. Conclusion: At the end, two dimensions of "fight mode" and "positive and negative emotions towards marriage and spouse" were identified for these questionnaires. Data analysis showed that Gottman's questionnaires have good validity in Iranian families and can be used in clinical, research and organizational environments and it is suitable to assess Iranian families. Also, the data in this research showed that Gottman's theory has good empirical support, regardless of the cultural context
Miss Prshang Bahramyan,
Volume 23, Issue 92 (2-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this research was to determine the effectiveness of meaning therapy approach on life expectancy. Methods: This research determined the effect size of the meaning therapy approach by using the meta-analysis technique and by integrating the results of different research. The statistical population included all the articles in the field of the effectiveness of the meaning therapy approach on life expectancy, which were 15, and a total of 12 methodologically acceptable studies were selected and meta-analysis was performed on them. The sources of data search included the scientific information database, the Noor specialized journals database, the Iran Journals Information Bank, and the comprehensive humanities portal. Data analysis and effect size calculation were done using CMA3 software and g-index. Findings: The results of this meta-analysis showed that the effect of meaning therapy approach on life expectancy is (1.76) (P<0.001), which is evaluated as a large effect size according to Cohen's table. Conclusion: It seems that the meaning therapy approach can be used as a suitable method to improve life expectancy in medical and educational centers.
Ata Yavari, Seyed Bashir Hosseini,
Volume 23, Issue 92 (2-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Religion, and, in general, culture are among the most important components of national identity worldwide. Islam is considered one of the primary criteria for the national identity of Iranians. Therefore, strengthening national identity is somewhat linked to reinforcing religious foundations. Among these religious foundations, beliefs serve as the underlying base, and within the principles of belief, monotheism is regarded as the most important element. This article aims to identify the requirements and methods for teaching monotheism to adolescents through edutainment and television programs to enhance their national identity. Methods: Part of the research related to the foundational issues was conducted using documentary and library methods, while the upper-level research, due to a lack of library resources and the novelty of the concept of edutainment in our academic literature, utilized in-depth interviews with experts and specialists. In-depth and targeted interviews were conducted with specialized experts. After conducting the interviews and going through the stages of recording and documentation, the desired data was obtained Findings: In our religious and national culture, numerous uses have been made of this strategy. Since the concept of monotheism is the highest element among Islamic teachings and exists like a soul within the body of all Islamic regulations, it is essential to avoid oversimplifying its education. Shallowing this concept is harmful, and care must be taken to preserve it. Balancing entertainment and education, as well as accurately and correctly understanding today's youth, are also essential requirements in this matter.
Zahra Zahra, Maryam Fatehizade, Faramarz Asanjarani,
Volume 23, Issue 92 (2-2025)
Abstract
Aim: This research was done with the aim of revealing the concerns of unmarried girls before marriage. Methods: The phenomenological method was used to conduct this research. For this purpose, a semi-structured interview was conducted with fifteen 20–30 year-old single girls on the verge of marriage who reported having conflicts with their parents about marriage. The data was analyzed using content analysis, based on the Claysey analysis method. Findings: In this study, 2 main themes and 20 sub-themes were extracted, which include: a). parents' perceived concerns (with 6 sub-themes); and b). girls' concerns (with 14 sub-themes). The results of the analysis showed that the perceived concerns of parents in the field of marriage include: parents' belief that youngsters seek excitement, fear of the girl getting older, fear of the girl being helpless and alone, wrong selection by the daughter, and lack of readiness and maturity, and unfamiliarity with the boy dating. The worries of single girls on the verge of marriage include: compatibility with the husband's family, problems after marriage, fear of marriage, difficulty in compatibility with the future spouse, worry about the future, feeling of being limited in marriage, lack of progress after marriage, prediction of dissatisfaction after marriage, moving away from family, fear of future spouse's possible betrayal, lack of another date in the future, excessive negligence by parents in marriage and the effect of negative characteristics of the girl in marriage and marriage with an ideal person. Conclusion: It seems that girls on the verge of marriage suffer from a fear and worry about marriage and its related issues, which brings annoying consequences such as delay in marriage, therefore changes in the organization of attitudinal-cognitive and behavioral patterns it is needed.
Dr Zahra Sadat Pour Seyyed Aghaei,
Volume 23, Issue 92 (2-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The present study was conducted with the aim of formulating a model of marital distress based on communication patterns and attachment styles with the mediating role of resilience in homemaker women. Methods: The present research had an applied objective and utilized a descriptive correlational method with a path analysis design for data collection. The statistical population of this study consisted of all homemaker women in the Narges Akbatan Community Group in Tehran during the first three months of the year 1401 (Solar Hijri calendar), from which 384 individuals were selected as the sample group, using convenience sampling. The research instruments included the Marital Distress Questionnaire, Communication Patterns Questionnaire, Attachment Styles Questionnaire, and Resilience Scale. Finally, the data were analyzed using the linear regression method within the path analysis framework, utilizing SPSS24 and AMOS23 software for statistical analysis. Findings: The results showed that communication patterns, secure and anxious attachment styles have a direct relationship with marital distress in homemaker women (p < 0.01). Moreover, resilience was able to mediate the relationship between communication patterns and marital distress, as well as the relationship between secure and avoidant attachment styles and marital distress in homemaker women (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The findings of this research indicate that in order to reduce marital distress in homemaker women, identifying couples' communication styles and attempting to change unhealthy communication patterns, through resilience-based training, counseling, and other interventions, can be effective.
Saleh Salehi, Fahimeh Fadakar Davarani,
Volume 23, Issue 92 (2-2025)
Abstract
Aim: This research was conducted to investigate the effect of emotion-focused approach training on improving interpersonal sensitivity in couples on the verge of divorce. Methods: The research method was quantitative and semi-experimental (pre-test-post-test design, with control group). The statistical population of the present study includes couples on the verge of divorce in Tehran province, regions 11 and 12, who are between the ages of 25 and 35 years old and have been selected voluntarily and based on the inclusion criteria for the study. The sample size of the study was 20 couples on the verge of divorce, who were selected by random sampling from couples on the verge of divorce who had referred to legal centers and counseling centers in Tehran for legal matters. The data collection tool was the interpersonal sensitivity questionnaire, and to test the research hypotheses, multivariate analysis of covariance was used with the assumptions (homogeneity of regression coefficients, linearity of the relationship between variables, normal distribution of the studied characteristic, homogeneity of variances). Findings: The results of the study indicate that the dimensions of interpersonal sensitivity (interpersonal awareness, need for approval, separation anxiety, shyness, and low self-esteem) in couples on the verge of divorce who received emotion-focused approach training were lower than those in couples who did not receive this training. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the emotion-focused approach training program had a significant effect on improving interpersonal sensitivity in couples on the verge of divorce and could be considered as an effective training program by psychologists and counselors.
Helia Behrouznia, Keyvan Salehi, Yaser Madani, Somayeh Shahmoradi,
Volume 24, Issue 93 (3-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Single-session therapy is a method designed to address the client's issues in the shortest possible time and emphasizes efficiency and maximum use of time. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of single-session therapy on marital intimacy, Methods: This research employed a mixed-methods explanatory design. The statistical population included all couples who visited to the Behzist Clinic in Tehran in 2023 with marital problems with marital problems. A total of 30 couples were selected through convenience sampling and assigned to experimental and control groups. In the quantitative phase, the effect of this intervention was assessed using a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with a control group, and using and the Walker and Thompson Marital Intimacy Scale (1983). In the qualitative phase, data from semi-structured interviews were collected with the same participants from the experimental group and analyzed by descriptive phenomenology method following the Colaizzi method. Findings: The quantitative results indicated that single-session therapy significantly improves marital intimacy (P ≤ 0.05). The qualitative findings also revealed improvements in marital intimacy, aligning with the subscales and questions of the Marital Intimacy Scale and supporting the quantitative results. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that single-session therapy can be used as a practical, short-term, and effective approach to improve marital intimacy, and its results can be useful for therapists and future researchers and encourage couples to use this method to enhance intimacy in their marital life.
Elahe Pakseresht, Kosar Dehdast,
Volume 24, Issue 93 (3-2025)
Abstract
Aim: In response to the growing need for contextualized criteria for spouse selection in Iranian society, this study explores the lived experiences of young women regarding such criteria, based on the Sahmgozari (participatory contribution) approach rooted in Islamic ontology. Methods: Using a phenomenological approach, purposeful sampling was conducted with 16 married young women who exhibited key indicators of the Sahmgozari lifestyle—such as feelings of tranquility and personal development, agency, and formative relationships. Semi-structured interviews were carried out and continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Data were then coded and analyzed. Findings: The analysis yielded three main pre-marital criteria for achieving the “desired self as a contributor in marital life.” The first criterion was development-oriented and tranquility-promoting attitudes in spouses; the second was awareness and preparedness regarding factors of similarity and difference; and the third was awareness of personal growth and maturity trajectories. Conclusion: Spouse selection criteria based on the Sahmgozari approach can broaden young women’s perspectives on marriage and support them in making rational and meaningful choices.
Sadegh Kasir, Abbas Amanelahi, Gholamreza Rajabi, Zabihollah Abbaspoor,
Volume 24, Issue 93 (3-2025)
Abstract
crisis with psychological, familial, social, and cultural repercussions. This study aimed to explore and explain the consequences of infertility in infertile men, with a specific focus on their sexual performance. Methods: This qualitative research employed a grounded theory approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 infertile men who sought treatment for infertility during 2023, using purposive sampling. The data were analyzed based on Strauss and Corbin’s (1998) grounded theory methodology through open, axial, and selective coding. Findings: Data analysis resulted in 25 open codes and four main categories, which were organized into two core themes: individual consequences and couple-related consequences. The couple-related consequences included emotional-relational distress caused by childlessness and a sense of helplessness in managing sexual conflicts within the relationship. Individual consequences involved sexual difficulties stemming from childlessness and emotional distress related to sexual dissatisfaction. Conclusion: The findings highlight that infertility negatively affects the sexual performance of infertile men, leading to issues such as reduced sexual desire, premature ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction. A decline in the quality and frequency of sexual activity was also observed. These challenges contributed to sexual dissatisfaction and emotional distress among participants. The study suggests that infertile individuals and couples may benefit from referrals to specialists in sexual health and couple therapy
Maryam Sayad Shirazi, Naemeh Nouri,
Volume 24, Issue 93 (3-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Marriage, as a key social institution, is increasingly confronted by the challenges of modern life, underscoring the importance of premarital counseling. This study seeks to examine existing gaps in premarital counseling from the perspectives of experts, identify its shortcomings, and propose strategies to enhance the quality and effectiveness of these services. Methods: This qualitative, exploratory research utilized thematic analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 participants (10 women and 5 men) and continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Thematic analysis was applied to interpret the data. Results: Following the analysis, meaningful statements were categorized into 120 basic themes, 5 organizing themes, and 16 overarching themes. The five organizing themes included: (1) essential components of premarital counseling, (2) enabling contexts for its development, (3) current challenges and deficiencies, (4) necessary strategies and interventions, and (5) the outcomes of premarital counseling. Conclusion: The findings suggest that enhancing the effectiveness of premarital counseling in Iran requires adapting validated international models to local cultural contexts, standardizing counseling services, engaging systemic institutions, leveraging purposeful technology, and addressing cultural and structural barriers. These improvements can help reduce divorce rates and foster more stable and healthy marital relationships in society.
Omid Mohammadi, Masoumeh Asmaeili,
Volume 24, Issue 94 (8-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The professional growth and development of counselors is a continuous and lifelong process. Accordingly, this study aimed to elucidate the process of growth and development among family counselors. Methods: This qualitative study employed a qualitative meta-analysis approach. The study population consisted of Persian and English qualitative articles related to the growth and development of family counselors. A total of 107 qualitative studies were reviewed, of which 18 were identified as fully relevant. Relevant articles were selected through comprehensive searches in databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, SID, NoorMagz, and Magiran. Data were analyzed using a systematic review method and the inductive thematic analysis approach proposed by Thomas and Harden, encompassing three stages: open coding, organizing codes into descriptive themes, and generating analytical concepts. Findings: The thematic analysis of the qualitative studies resulted in the identification of four main themes, 13 subcategories, and 230 sub-subcategories. The main themes were: Initiation and Orientation; Activity and Exploration; Transition and Follow-up; and Integration and Synergy. The subcategories included: Non-professional Assistance; Beginner Student and Self-Doubt; Understanding Philosophy and Enhancing Professional Knowledge; Basic Level Performance; Entering the Internship Path and Receiving Supervision; Labeling Oneself as a Professional Specialist; Novice Professional Performance; Contextual Understanding of the Professional Community; Experienced Professional Performance; Deepening Personal and Professional Reflection; Integration of Personal and Professional Self; Self-Transcendence and Self-Enhancement; and Mission-Centricity. Conclusion: The findings indicate that cultivating responsibility and self-confidence during training enables counselors to discover their unique professional voice and achieve a meaningful integration between their personal and professional selves.
Motahareh Norouzi, Mohammad Sajjad Seydi, Alireza Rashidi,
Volume 24, Issue 94 (8-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Empty nest syndrome refers to the feelings of sadness and loneliness experienced by parents or caregivers after their children leave home. This study aimed to explore the coping strategies employed by individuals with this syndrome who demonstrate high levels of psychological well-being. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological approach was used. In 2023, 137 parents from Islam Abad Gharb, Iran, completed the Spiritual Well-Being Questionnaire (Dahashiri et al., 2013), of whom 23 scored more than one standard deviation above the mean. Based on inclusion criteria, 13 participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via unstructured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method, following three stages of open, axial, and selective coding. Findings: Analysis yielded 251 open codes, 39 axial codes, and 3 selective codes, reflecting individual, family, and social coping strategies. Conclusion: The use of individual strategies such as self-awareness and positive thinking, family strategies including enhanced communication and empathy, and social strategies such as participation in religious and community activities can help alleviate symptoms of empty nest syndrome and promote better psychological adaptation among parents
Fatemeh Bayat, Abolfazl Hatami Varzaneh, Fatemeh Jahanbakhshi,
Volume 24, Issue 94 (8-2025)
Abstract
Aim: In some marital relationships, although the structural stability of the family remains intact, spouses experience minimal emotional and psychological satisfaction. This study explored the factors influencing women’s persistence in stable yet dissatisfying marriages. Methods: A qualitative research design employing a conventional content analysis approach was used. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 13 women who had remained in their marriages for at least 20 years despite dissatisfaction with their marital lives. Findings: The content analysis identified several key factors contributing to the continuation of these marriages, including economic considerations, children, family influences, cultural and social beliefs, individual personality traits, and spouse-related factors. Among these, financial dependence, concerns about children’s futures, social pressures, lack of essential independence skills, and positive behavioral changes in the spouse were particularly influential. Conclusion: Women’s persistence in stable yet dissatisfying marriages appears to result from an interplay of internal and external factors—economic dependence, the perceived needs of children, familial and social pressures, cultural beliefs, personality traits, and changes in the spouse’s behavior. No single factor alone determines the decision to stay or leave; rather, it is their dynamic interaction that shapes women’s choices. Understanding these dimensions can inform counseling practices and social interventions aimed at recognizing and addressing the needs and challenges of women in such circumstances
Jamshid Jarareh, Mohammad Hossein Babazadeh,
Volume 24, Issue 94 (8-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The present study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of tactical defense management based on intensive and short-term dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP) in reducing anxiety and depression in students. Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test measures and a control group. The statistical population included all students enrolled at Shahid Rajaee University of Tehran during the 2023–2024 academic year. The sample consisted of 14 participants selected through convenience sampling following a public call. After completing the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI; Beck, 1996), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI; Beck, 1988), and an initial clinical interview, participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 7) and a control group (n = 7). Both groups completed the BDI and BAI before and after the intervention. The experimental group attended six sessions of the Tactical Defense Management program based on Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), whereas the control group did not receive any intervention. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Findings: Results indicated that Tactical Defense Management based on ISTDP significantly reduced anxiety and depression among students (p<.05). Conclusion:
These findings suggest that applying Tactical Defense Management grounded in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) can be effective in decreasing anxiety and depression among university students.
Neda Mazloompour, Mohammad Masoud Dayarian, Nayere Arianfar,
Volume 24, Issue 94 (8-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Parental divorce, as a complex family event, exerts profound effects on the attachment development of adolescent girls, making the examination of their lived experiences essential for designing effective support interventions. Accordingly, the present study aimed to explore the lived experiences of adolescent girls concerning attachment transformation within the context of parental divorce. Methods: This research was conducted using a qualitative approach and a descriptive phenomenological method. Purposeful sampling was carried out among 28 adolescent girls aged 14 to 16 who had experienced parental divorce within the past five years in Isfahan. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews (averaging 50 minutes each) and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method. The credibility of the analysis was ensured through member checking and peer review. Findings: Data analysis revealed three overarching themes: 1. Pre-divorce phase: Breakdown of secure attachment foundations characterized by emotional instability and family disruption; 2. During the turbulence of divorce: Emergence of pendular attachment marked by emotional fluctuation and loyalty conflicts; 3. Post-divorce period: Search for new attachment sources involving detachment from primary figures and a tendency toward compensatory attachments. These themes illustrate the profound impact of divorce on adolescents’ attachment relationships and emotional identity. Conclusion: The findings suggest that parental divorce initiates a multi-stage and dynamic process of attachment transformation in adolescent girls, accompanied by emotional, identity, and social challenges. The study emphasizes the need for targeted psychological interventions to strengthen emotional security and social support for this population and provides a qualitative framework for a deeper understanding of their experiences and the development of culturally adapted counseling and family support programs
Kiomarth Farahbakhsh,
Volume 24, Issue 94 (8-2025)
Abstract
Aim:: Sexual deviance and marital infidelity are among the most significant factors undermining marital stability. The purpose of this article is to present a novel conceptual model termed “Sexual Exclusivity Development”, which explains how healthy sexual growth can lead to the restriction of sexual desire to a committed marital relationship and thereby reduce the likelihood of harmful sexual behaviors. Method: The method of this study is conceptual model construction, based on the author’s three decades of professional experience working with individuals suffering from sexual deviance and marital infidelity, along with the application of relevant theoretical frameworks in this field. Findings: Based on the synthesis of results obtained from working with clients who had a history of sexual deviation and infidelity, it was concluded that sexual maturity is not limited to biological changes. Rather, it represents a multidimensional process encompassing cognitive, emotional, moral, and self-regulatory growth. Drawing upon theoretical literature and the author’s clinical observations, the proposed model outlines ten developmental stages through which incongruent sexual stimuli are gradually eliminated and the individual’s sexual focus becomes centered on a spouse-oriented relationship. This article reviews psychoanalytic, evolutionary, attachment, and learning perspectives on sexual deviance and demonstrates how early sexual experiences and deficiencies in upbringing can disrupt the development of sexual exclusivity, thereby predisposing individuals to future marital infidelity. Conclusion: Finally, the article discusses the implications of this model for premarital counseling and emphasizes the necessity of empirical studies to evaluate its validity and practical applicability.
