Showing 367 results for Type of Study: Research
Razie Amini, Ahmad Sadeghi, Paisa Nilforooshan,
Volume 24, Issue 93 (3-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of an intervention based on the Social Cognitive Career Self-Management Model on academic entrepreneurial intention and identity among postgraduate students at the University of Isfahan. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study using a pretest-posttest control group design with random assignment. The statistical population included all postgraduate students at the University of Isfahan during the 2021–2022 academic year. Using convenience sampling, 30 participants were selected and randomly assigned to either an experimental or a control group (15 per group). Data were collected using the Academic Entrepreneurial Intention Scale (Goethner et al., 2012) and the Academic Entrepreneurial Identity Scale (Guo et al., 2019). The experimental group received the intervention in ten 90-minute sessions. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Findings: The results indicated that the intervention significantly increased academic entrepreneurial intention (F = 25.62, p < .01) and identity (F = 19.28, p < .01) among postgraduate students. Conclusion: The intervention, by enhancing process and coping self-efficacy, fostering adaptive career behaviors, encouraging career exploration and planning, and facilitating contextual and environmental influences, helped students to develop a stronger intention toward academic entrepreneurship and build their entrepreneurial identity.
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.
Haniyeh Honari Fotovat, Mohsen Golmohammadian, Mohsen Hojatkhah,
Volume 24, Issue 93 (3-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the lived experiences of students who have been successful in making career decisions. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed. In the quantitative phase, the Career Decision-Making Questionnaire by Betz and Taylor (1983) was used to identify successful students in career decision-making. In the qualitative phase, grounded theory methodology and in-depth interviews were applied to examine their experiences. The statistical population consisted of all female students in the 11th and 12th grades during the 2022–2023 academic year in Kermanshah, Iran. In the quantitative stage, cluster random sampling was used to select 200 participants who completed the career decision-making questionnaire. Based on their scores, students who scored more than one standard deviation above the mean were identified as successful in career decision-making. In-depth interviews were then conducted with 15 of these students. Data saturation was reached after the final two interviews. Findings: Through open, axial, and selective coding, a total of 42 concepts emerged from the students’ narratives. These were grouped into 10 axial codes and ultimately organized under 3 selective categories: self-awareness, environmental factors, and career awareness. Conclusion: The findings suggest that students' understanding of themselves, awareness of potential careers, and the influence of their surrounding environment play significant and impactful roles in their career decision-making process.
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.
Fatemeh Kafinia, Tayebeh Sharifi, Ahmad Ghazanfari,
Volume 24, Issue 93 (3-2025)
Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of compassion-based mindfulness therapy and mentalization-based therapy on the resilience of mothers of children with educable intellectual disabilities. Methods: A quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments and a control group was used. The statistical population consisted of mothers of children with educable intellectual disabilities in Farsan during the second half of 2023. Using convenience sampling, 45 participants were selected and randomly assigned to three groups (15 in each group). The first experimental group received eight 90-minute sessions of compassion-based mindfulness therapy, and the second experimental group received eight 90-minute sessions of mentalization-based therapy. The control group did not receive any intervention. The research instruments included the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC, 2003) and a brief clinical interview. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Findings: The results indicated that both mentalization-based (p < 0.001) and compassion-based mindfulness (p < 0.001) interventions had a lasting impact on increasing overall resilience and its subscales. Moreover, no significant difference was found between the effectiveness of the two treatment methods in enhancing resilience and its components (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Based on the findings, both compassion-based mindfulness therapy and mentalization-based therapy can be effectively used to enhance the resilience of mothers of children with educable intellectual disabilities
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.
Narjes Ameri, Mahmoud Najafi,
Volume 24, Issue 94 (8-2025)
Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of self-compassion-based mindfulness training on self-criticism, shame, and perceived stigma among substance-dependent individuals. Methods: The research employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test measures and a control group. The statistical population comprised all substance-dependent patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment who attended the Soroush Addiction Treatment Center in Shahrood in 2024. From this population, 32 individuals were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 16) and a control group (n = 16). Participants completed the Self-Criticism Levels Scale (Gilbert et al., 2004), the External Shame Scale (Goss et al., 1994), and the Substance Use Stigma Scale (Loma et al., 2010) in both pre-test and post-test stages. The experimental group received eight 90-minute sessions of mindfulness training based on self-compassion, conducted weekly. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Findings: The results showed significant differences between the two groups. Mindfulness training based on self-compassion significantly reduced self-criticism components, including self-inadequacy (F = 21.22, p = .001), self-loathing (F = 23.24, p = .001), and self-confidence (F = 31.21, p = .001); shame components, including feelings of inferiority (F = 30.31, p = .001), feelings of emptiness (F = 14.51, p = .001), and shame for making mistakes (F = 8.70, p = .007); as well as the internal stigma variable (F = 9.11, p = .006) among substance-dependent participants. Conclusion: The findings suggest that addiction specialists can utilize mindfulness training based on self-compassion to effectively reduce self-criticism, alleviate shame, and decrease perceived stigma among individuals with substance dependence.
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.
Abdolbaset Mahmoudpour, Asyie Shariatmadar,
Volume 24, Issue 94 (8-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an educational package for coping with empty nest syndrome and to examine its effectiveness on feelings of failure and distress tolerance among the elderly. Methods: The study was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, an empty nest counseling package was developed and validated through content validity assessment. In the second phase, a single-case experimental design (single-subject design) was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of the package. The statistical population included elderly individuals experiencing empty nest syndrome in Tehran during 2022–2023. Using convenience sampling, three elderly women residing in nursing homes in the Shahr-Ara and Qolhak neighborhoods, who scored high on the Feelings of Failure Scale (Gilbert & Allen, 1998), were selected. Data were collected using the Distress Tolerance Scale (Simons & Gaher, 2005) and the Feelings of Failure Scale. The intervention consisted of nine 60-minute sessions, held weekly. Findings: Data were analyzed through graphical analysis, and the percentage of improvement formula was used to determine the effectiveness of the intervention. The results indicated that the adaptation training package for empty nest syndrome effectively reduced feelings of failure and increased distress tolerance among the elderly participants. Conclusion: As the adaptation training package was designed based on the lived experiences of elderly individuals with empty nest syndrome, it can help enhance their distress tolerance and reduce feelings of failure, thereby promoting greater psychological well-being.
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.
Yaghoob Verdi, Hossein Ahmad Barabadi, Hadi Abbassi,
Volume 24, Issue 95 (12-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Individuals employ various coping strategies when facing stressful conditions. Effective coping strategies can reduce the impact of stressors and prevent the short- and long-term consequences of stress. The present study aimed to identify dyadic coping strategies among nurses working in intensive care units for patients with acute respiratory conditions. ▌Methods: This study was conducted using a qualitative approach and a descriptive phenomenological method. The participants consisted of 10 nurses working in the intensive care unit for patients with acute respiratory conditions at Rasoul Akram Hospital in Kalaleh County, Iran, in 2022, who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, and data analysis was carried out using the Colaizzi method. ▌Findings: Data analysis led to the extraction of 136 initial codes. Based on semantic similarity, these codes were categorized into 33 sub-themes, which were subsequently grouped into six main themes, including: supportive and constructive behaviors; maintaining and strengthening attachment-oriented bonds; caring behaviors; incorporating enjoyable activities into daily life; providing appropriate conditions for meeting physiological needs; and spiritual support. ▌Conclusion: Participants’ accounts indicated that spouses’ spiritual support, attachment-oriented behaviors, and supportive actions played an effective role in maintaining and enhancing nurses’ morale during multiple work shifts. In addition, spouses’ caring and health-related behaviors contributed to preventing nurses’ infection with acute respiratory diseases and to creating a calm and appropriate environment for rest and recovery from fatigue. The themes identified in this study can be used in the design and implementation of preventive and intervention programs for managing stressful situations.
Marzieh Jalali, Fatemeh Samiee, Parisa Nilforooshan, Ali Zakery,
Volume 24, Issue 95 (12-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Given the lack of future-oriented and multi-level frameworks for explaining adolescents’ career aspirations under the uncertain conditions of the future of work, this study aimed to identify key influencing factors and emerging patterns shaping these aspirations toward the 2050 horizon. This was achieved by analyzing the interaction of political, economic, social, technological, legal, environmental, and psychological factors within the extended PESTEL-P model. ▌Methods: This study employed an exploratory mixed-methods design, integrating expert interviews with a scoping review of the scientific literature. In the qualitative phase, 14 experts from relevant fields were purposively selected and interviewed using semi-structured protocols. In the scoping review phase, 16 peer-reviewed articles indexed in the Scopus database (2000–2024) were analyzed based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. ▌Findings: Five emerging patterns were identified: (1) a semantic shift in career aspirations from stable, status-oriented goals toward immediate and symbolic success; (2) increasing economic pressures accompanied by fragmentation of career identity coherence; (3) the growing influence of technology, digital media, and virtual identities; (4) the declining authority of family and educational institutions alongside the rise of media-based role modeling; and (5) a widening gap between formal policymaking and generational realities, resulting in unstable and short-term career choices. ▌Conclusion: Adolescents’ career aspirations are increasingly shifting from traditional, meaning-oriented goals toward technology-driven, media-influenced, and short-term pathways. These findings underscore the need to critically rethink educational policies, skill-development programs, and career counseling practices in order to better support adaptive and future-oriented career design.
Rezvan Aminalroaya, Hasan Zareeimahmoodabadi, Marieh Dehghanmanshadi, Fahimeh Dehghani,
Volume 24, Issue 95 (12-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Blended families, due to their distinct structure and specific relational challenges, may create emotional and cognitive pressures for adolescents. Self-help education that strengthens emotion regulation and cognitive flexibility skills can facilitate adolescents’ adaptation to new family conditions. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of an acceptance- and social skills–based self-help educational package on emotion regulation and cognitive flexibility in adolescents from blended families. ▌Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group. The statistical population consisted of 120 female adolescents from blended families enrolled in lower and upper secondary schools in Yazd during the 2023–2024 academic year. Based on inclusion criteria (female adolescents from blended families in Yazd; at least one year having passed since the formation of the new family; enrollment in lower or upper secondary school; low scores on emotion regulation and cognitive flexibility measures; and adolescents’ and parents’ willingness and informed consent to participate), 40 participants were selected through purposive sampling and then randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 20) and a control group (n = 20). Data were collected using the Gratz and Roemer Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and the Dennis and Vander Wal Cognitive Flexibility Inventory. The acceptance- and social skills–based self-help educational program was implemented for the experimental group in ten 60-minute sessions. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). ▌Findings: The results indicated that the acceptance- and social skills–based self-help educational intervention led to a significant increase in emotion regulation (F = 60.30, p < .05) and cognitive flexibility (F = 55.05, p < .05) among adolescents in the experimental group, whereas the control group showed no significant changes in these variables. The findings also demonstrated that acceptance- and social skills–based self-help education can effectively enhance adolescents’ self-management abilities and cognitive–emotional adaptation in blended families. ▌Conclusion: The findings suggest that acceptance- and social skills–based self-help educational interventions can serve as an effective tool for promoting mental health and improving cognitive and emotional adjustment among adolescents in blended families.
Seyyedeh Fatemeh Mousavi,
Volume 24, Issue 95 (12-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The present study was conducted to investigate the mediating effect of parental burnout in the relationship between depression and neuroticism and child rejection in parents. ▌Method: This study employed a correlational design. Accordingly, 206 parents (127 mothers and 79 fathers), aged 21–47 years, voluntarily participated in the study using convenience sampling. The research instruments included the Persian version of the Parental Burnout Assessment (Mousavi et al., 2020), the Neuroticism scale developed by Gosling et al. (2003), the Parental Rejection scale by Rohner and Ali (2020), and the Depression scale by Kroenke et al. (2001). ▌Finding: The results indicated that the total effect of neuroticism on parental rejection was not significant (β = .02, p > .05), whereas the total effect of depression on child rejection was significant (β = .03, p < .001). Furthermore, depression (β = .35, p < .01) and neuroticism (β = .16, p < .01) had significant effects on parental burnout. The effect of parental burnout on parental rejection was also significant (β = .69, p < .05). In addition, the indirect effects of depression (β = .24, 95% CI [.006, .05]) and neuroticism (β = .11, 95% CI [.005, .07]) on parental rejection through parental burnout were significant. ▌Conclusion: Attention to high-risk personality traits such as neuroticism and mood disorders such as depression, which increase the likelihood of parental burnout in parents and may lead to negative parenting outcomes such as child rejection, is of considerable importance in the field of parenting. Therefore, helping parents to recognize and effectively cope with these high-risk factors can facilitate constructive parenting conditions and reduce the effects associated with parental burnout.
Mokhtar Arefi, Badri Mahmoudi,
Volume 24, Issue 95 (12-2025)
Abstract
Aim: The main aim of the present study was to develop a causal model of marital stability based on self-differentiation with the mediating role of conflict management. ▌Method: This study employed a correlational design. The sample consisted of 200 married women selected through cluster sampling from among the parents of students attending first-level secondary schools in District One of Kermanshah. Participants completed the Conflict Management Questionnaire (ENRICH; 1982), the Self-Differentiation Questionnaire (Skowron & Smith, 2003), and the Marital Stability Questionnaire (Edwards et al., 1987). The collected data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares (PLS) software, and structural equation modeling with path analysis was applied to examine the relationships among the research variables. ▌Finding: This study employed a correlational design. The sample consisted of 200 married women selected through cluster sampling from among the parents of students attending first-level secondary schools in District One of Kermanshah. Participants completed the Conflict Management Questionnaire (ENRICH; 1982), the Self-Differentiation Questionnaire (Skowron & Smith, 2003), and the Marital Stability Questionnaire (Edwards et al., 1987). The collected data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares (PLS) software, and structural equation modeling with path analysis was applied to examine the relationships among the research variables. ▌Conclusion: Individuals with higher levels of self-differentiation manage marital conflicts more effectively, as they possess greater emotional regulation abilities and have achieved higher levels of personal growth. This enables them to engage in more constructive interactions with their spouses and to manage their behaviors more effectively, ultimately leading to greater marital stability and satisfaction.
