Effects of problem solving training on coping skills of suicidal clients

Effects of problem solving training on coping skills of suicidal clients Shamsi Khani S (MSc.), Rahgoie A (MSc.), Fallahi M (Ph.D), Rahgozar M (Ph.D).

Suicide is a primary health problem, requiring evidence-based information for prevention. Suicidal clients have difficulty in coping skills. Coping skills have important role in mental health. Cognitive therapies such as problem solving can improve coping skills and may be useful in the prevention of suicide. The Purpose of this study was to assess the effects of problem solving training on coping skills of suicidal clients.

In this quasi-experimental study, subjects consisted of 80 suicidal clients selected by purposive sampling and randomly divided into two equal case and control groups. A demographic questionnaire and Coping Skills Scale (Blinghs and Mous) were used for data collection. Reliability and validity of the questionnaire were obtained by Cronbach’s alpha, stability reliability and content methods. Both groups were first assessed in terms of their coping skills. 7-10 training sessions in the case group were hold 4 times a week for each client individually each lasted 30-45 minutes. Gholdfried and Davidson’s method in problem solving training was provided for them. 2 weeks after completion of the training, coping skill test was carried out in both groups.

Findings showed no significant difference in coping skill variables (emotion and problem focused) before the intervention (P>0.05) but the difference became significant after the intervention (P=0.000) in the case group.

Problem solving training has significant effects on coping skills and, therefore, can be applied in the treatment of behavioral disorders. It may also prevent suicidal attempts in clients and promote their health condition.