Journal of Counseling Research

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The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of Imago Therapy techniques and life skills training program in communication' Patterns for young couples. The population in this study was young couples who have referred to counseling centers in Bushehr. The sample consisted of 90 subjects (45 pairs) and they were replaced into two experimental groups and one control group. After the pre-test, each group for 10 sessions (one session per week) exposure to life skills education and training of Imago Therapy techniques. The research instrument was the questionnaire of communication pattern. For data analysis, covariance and regression analyzes were used. Results showed that both Imago Therapy techniques and life skills training was effective on improving couples' communication patterns. With comparing the two methods,( Imago Therapy techniques and life skills training) life skills training, is more effective in improving couples' communication patterns.

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Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study was determining the efficacy of life skills training on reduction of depression, anxiety and stress among university students.Method: The study was quasi-experimental with pretest-posttest, control group and follow up. 30 female students from all faculties of University of Mohaghegh Ardabili were selected and administered DASS (1995) as pre- and posttest. The sample group members randomly assigned into two equal groups of experimental (n=15) and control (n=15). Experimental group received 8 two-hour sessions of social skills training. Follow-up was administered after three months by administration of DASS.

Results: Analysis of covariance showed significant differences in pretest, posttest, and follow up scores of depressing, anxiety, and stress subscales between experimental and control groups, so that experimental group had significant reduction in aforementioned components (p<.01).Conclusion: According to findings, it appears that life skills training is capable of elimination of depression, anxiety, and stress among female university students. Social and clinical applications, limitations, and suggestions for future studies are discussed.

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Aim: The purpose of this study was to develop a life skills training based on native Iranian culture and to determine its effectiveness on the happiness and resilience of divorced women. Methods: The research method used was qualitative-quantitative. The statistical population for this research included all divorced women between the ages of 30 and 40 who referred to counseling and psychological services centers of city of Kerman in the first half of 1395 (Persian calendar), among whom 30 were selected thrgouh available sampling method and were randomly divided into two experimental and control groups (15 subjects each). To collect data, Conner and Davidson Resilience (2003) and Oxford Happiness (1989) Questionnaires were used. The training program was performed in 11 ninety-minute sessions  in the experimental group, and the control group was placed in the waiting list. The results were analyzed using covariance analysis. Results: The findings showed that the content validity ratio (CVR) was calculated based on the Lavoshe method for 10 experts (0/83), and the content validity index (CVI) based on the Waltz and Bassel methods for this number was 0/80, and based on comparing these values with the acceptable value of both indicators, the content validity of the program is acceptable. Also, the results showed that life skills training had an impact on increasing the happiness and resiliency of the experimental group compared to the control group (p<0/01). Conclusion: According to the results, life skills program (self-awareness, coping with stress, empathy) based on indigenous culture is an appropriate and effective program for divorced women and its implementation can affect the happiness and resiliency of these individuals.