Applied Family Therapy Journal
Volume:5 Issue: 2, Spring 2024

 This study aimed to validate the Persian version of the Relationship Flourishing Scale (RFS) on a sample of married Iranian students.

 The study was descriptive-correlational and applied in nature. The sample consisted of 352 individuals (89% female), selected through multi-stage cluster sampling. The data collection tools included the Fowers et al.'s Relationship Flourishing Scale (2016), Adams et al.'s Sexual Mindfulness Questionnaire (2015), and the short form of Booth et al.'s Marital Instability Questionnaire (1989). Data analysis was performed using SPSS26 and AMOS24 software, utilizing descriptive statistics and confirmatory factor analysis (Cronbach's Alpha, Pearson correlation, and construct validity and reliability).

 The results of the confirmatory factor analysis were satisfactory, confirming the psychometric properties of the Relationship Flourishing Scale. The factor structure of the questionnaire, consisting of four factors (having meaning, shared goals, personal growth, and being in a relationship), was validated. Cronbach's Alpha calculated for the overall questionnaire was 0.83, and for the factors having meaning, shared goals, personal growth, and being in a relationship, it was 0.82, 0.83, 0.89, and 0.80 respectively, confirming the construct reliability. Fit indices (GFI = 0.90, NFI = 0.92, CFI = 0.94, TLI = 0.91, CMIN/df = 4.92) were within acceptable ranges, and construct validity was confirmed.

 The factor structure of the original English version of the Relationship Flourishing Scale was replicated, and satisfactory internal reliability was found. Consequently, the translated Persian version of the Relationship Flourishing Scale can serve as a valid tool for assessing the quality of marital relationships in research and clinical settings within the Iranian community.

 The aim of the present study was to predict distress tolerance in the elderly based on experiential avoidance and spiritual intelligence.

 This was a descriptive correlational study. The population included all elderly individuals aged between 65 and 80 years who visited community centers in Tehran in 2022, from whom a sample of 300 was selected using cluster sampling. The Emotional Distress Tolerance Scale by Simons and Gaher (2005), the Spiritual Intelligence Scale by King (2008), and the Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire by Gámez et al. (2011) were utilized for data collection. Data were analyzed using regression analysis.

 The results indicated that experiential avoidance significantly negatively predicted distress tolerance. Additionally, spiritual intelligence significantly positively predicted distress tolerance.

 Based on the findings of the current study, it can be concluded that this predictive model could serve as an effective framework in counseling and psychotherapy centers to enhance distress tolerance among the elderly.

 Dealing with stress is one of the transformative changes that divorce introduces in personal and family lives, leading to the disruption of mental health, cognitive conflicts, and identity crises among women. Thus, the current study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a strength-based approach on distress tolerance and frustration tolerance in divorced women.

 The research was applied in nature and semi-experimental in design, featuring a pre-test and post-test with one experimental group and one control group, along with a two-month follow-up. Consequently, the study population consisted of all divorced women who visited counseling centers in District 6 of Tehran in 2022. From this population, 40 women were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to an experimental group (20 participants) and a control group (20 participants). The experimental group underwent a strength-based approach program based on a protocol developed by Darbani and Parsakia (2022). Data collection tools included the Harrington Frustration Tolerance Questionnaire (2005) and the Simons and Gahr Distress Tolerance Questionnaire (2005). Descriptive statistics utilized frequency distribution tables, and inferential analysis was conducted using mixed ANOVA with repeated measures and Bonferroni post-hoc tests, employing SPSS software version 26.

 Considering the F-values and significance levels in the mixed ANOVA for frustration tolerance (F = 10.49, p = 0.002) and distress tolerance (F = 8.81, p = 0.003), it can be concluded that the intervention employed in this study, namely the strength-based approach as an independent variable, significantly altered the dependent variables (frustration tolerance and distress tolerance).

 Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the strength-based approach is effective in improving distress tolerance and frustration tolerance among divorced women. Therefore, techniques from this approach can be utilized in post-divorce counseling for divorced women.

 This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) group exercises and Emotion-Focused Group Therapy (EFGT) on the authentic happiness of critically ill inpatients and those recovered from COVID-19.

 The research utilized a quasi-experimental design with three groups (one control group and two experimental groups), conducted in three phases (pre-test, post-test, and three-month follow-up). The study population included all critically ill patients hospitalized and then recovered from COVID-19 during the second quarter of 2021 at Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad. A sample size of 15 patients per group, totaling 45 patients, was considered. Patients were randomly assigned to three groups using a convenience sampling method. The training group (1) received eight 45-minute sessions of Emotion-Focused Group Therapy by Greenberg, Warwar, and Malcolm (2008), and training group (2) underwent eight 120-minute sessions of MBSR by Kabat-Zinn (2005), while the control group did not receive any treatment. Data were collected using Rashid's (2008) Authentic Happiness Inventory and analyzed using mixed ANOVA with repeated measures through SPSS-23 software.

 Results indicated that although both treatments had an effect on authentic happiness and its components up to the follow-up stage (p < 0.01), no significant difference in the effectiveness of the two treatments on authentic happiness in patients was observed.

 This research could broadly benefit the psychological state improvement in critically ill inpatients and those recovering from acute or chronic illnesses.

 The current study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of solution-focused couples therapy on psychological well-being and distress tolerance.

 This was a quasi-experimental study using a pre-test and post-test design with a control group and a follow-up phase. The population consisted of all couples attending counseling centers in Tehran during the last two months of the year 2021. A sample of 30 couples was selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to an experimental group (15 couples) and a control group (15 couples). The research instruments included the Ryff Psychological Well-being Scale (1988) and the Simons and Gaher Distress Tolerance Scale (2005). The experimental group received eight sessions of McDonald's (2007) solution-focused training in a group setting, whereas the control group received no intervention. Data were analyzed using covariance analysis with SPSS software version 21.

 The results showed that solution-focused couples therapy had a significant effect on the dimensions of psychological well-being (F = 15.78, p = .001) and distress tolerance (F = 12.00, p = .001); these effects were maintained during the follow-up phase (p < .001).

 Given the results, therapists can employ solution-focused couples therapy to enhance psychological well-being and distress tolerance among couples, which significantly affects the stability and strength of families.

 The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of Couples Coping Enhancement Training (CCET) on resilience and marital conflicts in couples during the transition to parenthood.

 This quasi-experimental research employed a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design with experimental and control groups. The population consisted of couples attending counseling centers in Shiraz in 2022, from whom 12 couples were selected using a volunteer-available sampling method based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and randomly assigned to either the experimental group (6 couples with training) or the control group (6 couples without training). The CCET training sessions for the experimental group were conducted over nine weekly two-hour sessions. Data were collected using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (Connor & Davidson, 2003) and the Sanaei Zaker and Barati Marital Conflict Questionnaire (2008). The data were analysed with analysis of variance with repeated measurements method using SPSS-25 software.

 Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance in SPSS26. The findings indicated that CCET significantly enhanced resilience and reduced marital conflicts in the experimental group compared to the control group in the post-test. Furthermore, the non-significant difference between post-test and follow-up scores in the experimental group suggests the lasting impact of CCET on resilience and marital conflicts in couples during the transition to parenthood.

 Therefore, CCET can be utilized to increase resilience among couples and aid in reducing marital conflicts post-childbirth.

 The aim of this study was to identify the factors influencing the formation, continuation, and dissolution of Iranian marriages in the year 2022.

 This research utilized a qualitative method based on the Strauss and Corbin approach. A purposive selection of 10 experts, either faculty members or influential figures in decision-making centers for marriage and family affairs, were deeply interviewed. The data obtained from these experts provided a semi-structured questionnaire for interviews with 36 individuals, divided into three groups: formation, continuation, and dissolution of marriages. After each interview, data were coded and categorized according to the Strauss and Corbin method.

 In total, 2950 primary codes, 462 secondary codes, 97 concepts, 27 subcategories, and 9 main categories were identified, including external couple factors affecting formation, continuation, and dissolution; internal couple factors affecting formation, continuation, and dissolution; and individual factors affecting formation, continuation, and dissolution.

 The results indicated that the formation of marriage is influenced more by external couple factors than by any other factors. Although the continuation and dissolution of marriage are influenced by the nature of their formation, individual factors become important in these stages. It can be inferred that focusing on external couple factors before individual and internal couple factors in pre-marital counseling, and prioritizing individual factors in couple therapy and divorce counseling, may be more effective. It is recommended that the results of this study be used in planning, research, and therapeutic interventions in the field of marriage

 This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of integrated behavioral couple therapy and schema-focused couple therapy on conflict resolution styles among conflicting couples in Shiraz.

 The research employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and one-month follow-up. The statistical population included all conflicting couples who visited the Fajr Counseling Center in Shiraz in 2022, from whom 45 couples were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to three groups: integrated behavioral couple therapy, schema-focused couple therapy, and a control group. The Rahim Conflict Resolution Styles Questionnaire was used as the measurement tool. Experimental group one underwent a 16-session program of integrated behavioral couple therapy, and experimental group two a 13-session program of schema-focused couple therapy, while the control group was placed on a waiting list. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance.

 Results indicated that both interventions, integrated behavioral couple therapy and schema-focused couple therapy, were effective in addressing conflict resolution styles. There was a difference in the effectiveness of integrated behavioral couple therapy and schema-focused couple therapy on conflict resolution styles.

 Based on the findings, both treatments are effective for couples' conflict resolution styles, but the effectiveness of integrated behavioral couple therapy is reported to be more effective.

 The purpose of the current study was to investigate the mediating role of dark personality traits in explaining the structural relationships between the desire to control others and women's sense of happiness.

 The research method was descriptive correlational with a structural equation modeling approach. The population of the study comprised all married women in Tehran in the year 2021. The sample size was 448 participants, selected through purposive convenience sampling and assessed using the Taghizadeh and Shadmehri Happiness Scale (2016), the Graham-Kwan and Archer Controlling Behaviors Scale (2005), and the Johnson and Webster Dark Personality Traits Scale (2010). Data analysis was performed using structural equation modeling.

 The analysis indicated that the structural model of the study fits well with the collected data, and dark personality traits significantly and negatively mediate the relationship between the desire to control others and women's sense of happiness.

 Thus, it can be stated that the higher the desire to control others and the presence of dark personality traits, the lower the sense of happiness, which can be a useful insight in couples' counseling.

 Marital conflict is one of the serious problems in couples' interactions, which is considered as the cause of marital infidelity or divorce in many cases. This research was conducted with the aim of comparing the effectiveness of schema therapy and emotion focused therapy on the attitude towards marital infidelity of people with marital conflict.

 The research method was quasi-experimental with a pre-test-post-test design with two experimental groups and a control group along with a follow-up test period. From the statistical population of women referring to the clinics of the 1st district of Tehran, 45 people were selected using the available method and replaced in three groups using a random method. Whatley's marital infidelity questionnaire (2006) was used. First, the pre-test of the attitude towards extrapolation was implemented for all three groups, then schema therapy (Yang, 2003) and emotion focused therapy (Greenberg, 2004) were implemented for the experimental groups, but no intervention was applied for the control group; Finally, the post-test and the follow-up test were performed for all three groups.

 The results of the repeated measurement test showed that both schema therapy and emotion focused groups are effective in reducing attitudes towards marital infidelity (f=8.447 and p=0.001). Bonferroni's post hoc test showed that there is no significant difference in the effectiveness of the two schema therapy and emotion focused approaches.

 To improve the attitude towards marital infidelity of people with marital conflict, it is suggested to use both schema therapy and emotion focused interventions.

 The current study aimed to examine the effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT) on intimacy, marital adjustment, and forgiveness among couples with a history of extramarital affairs.

 The research design was a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest with a control group. The study population included all women in Tehran who were affected by their husbands' extramarital relationships in 2022. A sample of 30 women affected by such relationships and visiting counseling centers in District 2 of Tehran was selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group in equal numbers. The research instruments included the Thompson and Walker (1983) Intimacy Scale, the Spanier (1976) Marital Adjustment Questionnaire, and the Rye et al. (2001) Forgiveness Questionnaire. The experimental group received EFCT in eight 60-minute sessions over a month; the control group was placed on a waiting list. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance with the aid of SPSS version 23 software.

 The findings indicated that EFCT significantly improved intimacy (p < 0.01), marital adjustment (p < 0.01), and marital forgiveness (p < 0.01).

 It can be concluded that Emotion-Focused Couple Therapy effectively enhances intimacy, adjustment, and forgiveness in couples with a history of extramarital affairs.

 The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of acceptance and commitment-based couples therapy on attitudes toward marital infidelity and emotional regulation in married women.

 This research was a quasi-experimental study conducted using pre-test, post-test, and follow-up methods. The study population consisted of 30 married women visiting psychological services and counseling centers in Tehran in the fall of 2022, who were selected using a convenience sampling method and were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control groups. The experimental group received acceptance and commitment-based couples therapy, while the control group received no training. The standard questionnaire on the tendency toward marital infidelity by Bashirpour et al. (2018) and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale by Gratz and Roemer (2004) were distributed among all the study participants. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA with SPSS software version 22.

 The results showed that couples therapy based on acceptance and commitment had a significant effect on attitudes toward infidelity (F = 57.26, p < .001) and emotional regulation (F = 26.64, p < .001) in married women.

 It can be concluded that acceptance and commitment-based couples therapy is effective in influencing attitudes towards marital infidelity and emotional regulation in married women and can be used to improve the quality of married life.

 Marital infidelity is one of the most significant threats to the stability of marital relationships and a leading cause of divorce across various cultures. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on self-compassion and experiential avoidance in women who have experienced marital infidelity.

 The current research was a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test and post-test design, involving experimental and control groups and a three-month follow-up. All women who had experienced marital infidelity and attended psychotherapy and counseling clinics in Tehran during the year 2021-2022 constituted the statistical population of this study, from which 30 were selected via convenience sampling based on the inclusion criteria and randomly assigned to two equal groups of 15. Data were collected using the Self-Compassion Scale (Neff, 2003) and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire - Second Version (Bond et al., 2007). Participants in the experimental group received 8 sessions of intervention. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and one-way analysis of variance with SPSS version 26.

 The mean self-compassion score and its dimensions in the experimental group significantly improved post-intervention compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Cognitive-behavioral therapy was beneficial in reducing experiential avoidance in the experimental group, unlike the control group (p < 0.05). The effects of this therapeutic program on dependent variables continued during the three-month follow-up period (p < 0.05).

 Cognitive-behavioral exercises can be used as an effective intervention method to improve the cognitive-emotional status of women who have experienced marital infidelity.

 In the professional lives of women, factors such as stress, long working hours, multiple roles, and work-family conflict can affect their sexual function. Therefore, this study aimed to predict sexual function based on sexual self-awareness and perfectionism in employed women.

 The present study was applied and descriptive-correlational. The study population consisted of employed women in Isfahan County, who were sampled using a convenience sampling method with 210 participants being examined. For data collection, Rosen, Myers, and Hatty's (2000) Female Sexual Function Questionnaire, Snell, Fisher, and Miller's (1991) Sexual Awareness Questionnaire, and Hill's (2004) Perfectionism Questionnaire were used. For data analysis in the inferential statistics part, simultaneous multiple regression was conducted using SPSS version 21.

 The findings indicate that sexual self-awareness and perfectionism can explain 15.2% of the variance in sexual function. The t-test for significance in the regression for the coefficient of sexual self-awareness (β = 0.292) and perfectionism (β = -0.271) is significant at the level below 0.01. Sexual self-awareness has a greater unique contribution in predicting the sexual function of employed women (α = 0.05).

 Ultimately, enhancing sexual self-awareness and controlling perfectionism can help maintain and improve the sexual function of employed women. According to the results obtained, sexual self-awareness, followed by perfectionism, predicts the sexual function of these women in their relationships.

 This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-based skill training on distress tolerance, emotional cognitive regulation, and marital quality of life in women with recurrent miscarriages.

 The population consisted of all women attending infertility clinics in Tehran during 2019-2020. A sample of 30 women was selected through convenience and purposive sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups (15 in each group). The instruments used in this study included: the Distress Tolerance Scale by Simons and Gaher (2005), Cognitive and Emotional Regulation Scale by Garnefski, Kraaij, and Spinhoven (2006), and Marital Quality of Life Scale by Fletcher, Simpson, and Thomas (2000). Repeated measures and a significance level of .05 were used for statistical analysis.

 The results showed significant differences in means between the two groups at pre-test, post-test, and follow-up stages, with significant improvements in distress tolerance, emotional cognitive regulation, and marital quality of life. The effect sizes of this treatment were 0.885, 0.910, and 0.983, respectively.

 Given the confirmed effectiveness of the treatment, it is recommended that these women receive psychological treatments in conjunction with medical treatments.

 The study aimed to evaluate the impact of life skills training on distress tolerance, psychological adaptation, and high-risk behaviors among incarcerated women.

 This was an applied, experimental study. The study population consisted of incarcerated women in Kerman Central Prison in 2022. Sixty participants exhibiting high-risk behaviors were randomly assigned into an experimental group (30 women) and a control group (30 women). The experimental group received the World Health Organization's (WHO, 1998) ten-session life skills training program, each lasting 90 minutes, while the control group was placed on a waiting list. Both groups were assessed using the Simons and Gaher Distress Tolerance Scale (2005), the Derogatis Psychological Adaptation Scale (1986), and the Rajaee and Shafiei High-Risk Behavior Questionnaire (2011) before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance with SPSS software.

 Results indicated that life skills training significantly impacted distress tolerance, psychological adaptation, and high-risk behaviors in incarcerated women (p < .01).

 Life skills training can be effectively utilized to enhance distress tolerance and psychological adaptation, and to reduce high-risk behaviors.

 The current research aimed to examine the effectiveness of positive cognitive behavioral therapy on psychological flexibility and the meaning of life among single women aged 25 to 35 in Tehran.

 The method of the study was quasi-experimental with a pre-test-post-test design, including a control group and a follow-up phase. The population of this study consisted of single women aged 25 to 35 from Tehran, who had visited the community centers of District One during the second half of 2021. The sampling was purposive, and the study sample included a control group and an experimental group, each consisting of 20 randomly placed participants. The experimental group received 8 bi-weekly two-hour sessions in a group setting, following the protocol of Bannink (2014). Instruments used in this study included the Bond Psychological Flexibility Questionnaire (2011) and Steger's Meaning in Life Questionnaire (2010). Data analysis was conducted in two phases: descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. For inferential statistics, given the design of the study, parametric tests and the normality of data distribution were assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test and univariate analysis of covariance, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24.

 The findings indicated that positive cognitive behavioral therapy significantly increased psychological flexibility (F = 75.22, p = .001) and enhanced the meaning of life (F = 57.13, p = .001) among the participants, and these effects were maintained during the follow-up phase.

 Positive cognitive behavioral therapy can be an effective method for improving psychological flexibility and meaning in life among single women and can be utilized by therapists and clients.

 The present research aimed to compare the effectiveness of assertiveness training and Logotherapy on cognitive emotional regulation and psychological well-being in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorders.

 The research design was a quasi-experimental pre-test post-test with a control group. The study population included all mothers of children with autism spectrum disorders in Tehran during the years 2022-2023. Sixty eligible individuals were randomly sampled into three groups: Experimental Group 1, Experimental Group 2, and a Control Group. The research variables were measured using the Gratz and Roemer (2004) Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and the Ryff (1989) Psychological Well-being Scale. Experimental Groups 1 and 2 received eight 2-hour sessions of Logotherapy and assertiveness training respectively, while the control group received no intervention during this period. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software.

 The results indicated that there was a significant difference in the effectiveness of assertiveness training and Logotherapy on cognitive emotional regulation among mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (p = 0.05). There was also a significant difference in the effectiveness of assertiveness training and Logotherapy on the psychological well-being of these mothers (p = 0.05).

 Therefore, it can be concluded that both assertiveness training and Logotherapy enhance cognitive emotional regulation, with Logotherapy being a more effective method for increasing psychological well-being compared to assertiveness training.

 The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of emotion-focused therapy and short-term psychodynamic therapy on sexual dysfunction and the quality of sexual life in women attending counseling and psychotherapy centers in Isfahan.

 The research design was a quasi-experimental pre-test, post-test, and follow-up. The population included all women in Isfahan province suffering from sexual dysfunction in 2023. Sixty individuals were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned into three groups: twenty in the first experimental group, twenty in the second experimental group, and twenty in the control group. The first experimental group underwent emotion-focused psychological intervention based on the therapeutic protocol by Gilbert (2014) in fifteen 60-minute sessions, and the second experimental group received short-term psychodynamic psychological intervention based on the therapeutic protocol (Davanloo, 2013) in twelve 60-minute sessions held weekly, followed by a one-month follow-up. The control group was placed on a two-month waiting list for the most effective intervention. Data collection for analysis was conducted using the Rosen et al. (2000) Women's Sexual Dysfunction Questionnaire and the Simonds et al. (2005) Women's Sexual Life Quality Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using mixed ANOVA with SPSS version 25.

 The findings indicated that both treatments were effective in reducing sexual dysfunction in women (F = 73.08, p < .001) and improving the quality of sexual life (F = 18.02, p < .001). However, there was a significant difference between the effectiveness of the two therapeutic methods in reducing sexual dysfunction and increasing the quality of sexual life in women (p < .001).

 It can be concluded that both emotion-focused and short-term psychodynamic therapies are effective in reducing sexual dysfunction and improving the quality of sexual life in women. Both treatments can be used to reduce psychological issues in women attending counseling centers.

 Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common chronic diseases of the central nervous system, and the disability resulting from the disease impacts self-efficacy and various mental health dimensions of these patients. Therefore, the present study aimed to propose a structural model for predicting psychological well-being and emotional regulation based on resilience and self-efficacy among MS patients in Tehran.

 Given its objective, this research is of the applied type and descriptive in nature concerning data collection methods, specifically employing structural equation modeling. The statistical population of this study included all individuals with MS attending treatment centers in Tehran in 2021, with a minimum sample size estimated at 150. The variables studied were based on the Ryff's Psychological Well-being Scale, the Gross and John's Emotional Regulation Questionnaire, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Schwarzer and Jerusalem's Self-Efficacy Scale. Ultimately, data were analyzed using structural equation modeling in AMOS software.

 According to the study's findings, all standardized coefficient values related to the dimensions of the latent variables were higher than 0.4, indicating that this measurement model has adequate reliability regarding the items of latent variables. Critical ratio values are usually introduced as validity parameters associated with the structural model and, in this study, all values were significant and outside the range of (-1.96, 1.96), with Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability values greater than 0.7 and AVE values greater than 0.5.

 Thus, the model enjoys appropriate validity and reliability.

 This research aimed to compare the effectiveness of therapist-assisted couple therapy and emotion-focused couple therapy on psychological well-being, negotiation enhancement, and aggression reduction in women victims of spousal violence.

 The study was applied, field-based, and quasi-experimental, employing a pre-test, post-test design with a control group. The sample consisted of couples attending counseling and psychotherapy centers in Qom during the second half of 2021. Out of these, 45 couples were randomly assigned after entry criteria control into three groups: emotion-focused treatment group (15 couples), therapist-assisted treatment group (15 couples), and a control group (15 couples). The research tools included the Strauss et al. (1979) Conflict Tactics Scales and the Ryff (1989) Psychological Well-Being Scales, which were administered to the female victims in three phases: pre-test, post-test, and follow-up. The emotion-focused group received Johnson’s (2003) training package over nine sessions, and the therapist-assisted group received Aghayousefi et al.’s (2020) training package over eight sessions. The control group received no intervention. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and SPSS software version 26.

 Results showed that both emotion-focused and therapist-assisted couple therapies significantly reduced aggression (F = 90.30, p < .001), increased negotiation (F = 64.47, p < .001), and enhanced psychological well-being (F = 103.81, p < .001) in the female victims of spousal violence, with these effects maintained at follow-up. However, the emotion-focused therapy package was more successful in improving psychological well-being, negotiation, and reducing aggression than the therapist-assisted therapy package.

 The findings suggest that both emotion-focused and therapist-assisted couple therapies are effective interventions for resolving conflicts and improving psychological well-being.

 This study aimed to present a structural model of the quality of life for the elderly based on self-care with the mediating role of social support.

 The research employed a correlational design using structural equation modeling. The study population consisted of individuals aged 60 to 75 years living in urban homes in Tehran, with 314 participants selected as the research sample. The data collection tools included the Iranian version of the Phillips Social Support Questionnaire (1986), the World Health Organization's Quality of Life Questionnaire (1989), and the Elderly Self-care Questionnaire by Younesi et al. (2020). The statistical technique used was a full latent variable structural equation model, and the data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, AMOS version 24, and R software version 4.3.1. Examination of the model fit indices indicated that the model overall is in excellent condition for explaining and fitting the data.

 The results showed that both social support and self-care have a significant positive effect on the quality of life variable for the elderly. Moreover, the self-care variable also has a significant positive impact on the social support variable at a 95% confidence level. Additionally, the self-care variable significantly affects the quality of life of the elderly through the mediating variable of social support.

 According to the findings of this study, the mediating role of social support can play a significant role in examining changes in the quality of life of the elderly. It is recommended that the importance of social support be emphasized and taught in elderly care centers and other counseling and guidance centers.

 The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on negative automatic thoughts and negative affect in depressed women.

 The design of this study was applied and quasi-experimental, featuring pre-test and post-test stages with two experimental groups and one control group, followed by a two-month follow-up period. The study population included all women diagnosed with depression who visited a private counseling center in Tehran in 2023. A convenience sample of 30 participants was randomly assigned equally to the two experimental groups and one control group. The Watson and Tellegen (1985) Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) and the Hollon and Kendall (1980) Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ) were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS-26 software, applying three-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni post hoc tests.

 Results indicate significant differences between pre-test and post-test scores for both therapies in terms of negative affect and negative automatic thoughts (p < .01), demonstrating the significant efficacy of both treatment modalities. No significant differences were found between post-test and follow-up scores (p > .05). Analysis using the Bonferroni test shows no significant difference in the efficacy of the two approaches on problem-solving components (p > .05).

 Based on the findings, it can be concluded that both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are effective in reducing negative affect and negative automatic thoughts in depressed women, with no significant difference in the effectiveness of these therapeutic approaches.

 This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment-Based Couple Therapy (ACT) on communication patterns and marital infidelity among married individuals in Yazd.

 The research method was quasi-experimental. The population consisted of all married individuals attending psychological counseling and service centers in Meybod. Using questionnaires on communication patterns and marital infidelity, and employing purposive sampling, 20 couples with higher scores were selected from a pool of 50 couples. They were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (10 couples) or the control group (10 couples). The experimental group underwent Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, while the control group received no treatment. Post-tests were administered to both groups. Results, analyzed using covariance analysis.

 Findings showed that Acceptance and Commitment-Based Couple Therapy significantly impacts the communication patterns of married individuals. Additionally, it significantly affects marital infidelity among married individuals.

 Thus, ACT can be used to enhance couple’s relationship and prevent infidelity and divorce.

 The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of problem-solving skills training based on the theories of Tolman and Bandura on the problem-solving styles of middle school students.

 The research method was quasi-experimental. The population consisted of all female first-year middle school students in Hamadan, with a sample size of 75 students (three groups of 25), selected through multi-stage cluster sampling. The D'Zurilla, Nezu, and Maydeu-Olivares problem-solving questionnaire (2000) was used for data collection. Problem-solving training sessions based on Tolman's theory followed a protocol provided by Tolman (1932), and those based on Bandura's theory followed a protocol by Bandura (1999), conducted over eight 60-minute weekly sessions for two months. Data were analyzed using Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) and the Scheffé post hoc test.

 There were differences in the impact of training based on these theories on students' problem-solving styles (P < .01). Training based on Tolman's theory was more effective in reducing the use of negative and impulsive problem-solving styles compared to training based on Bandura's theory (P < .01).

 These trainings increased the use of positive and logical orientation styles and decreased the use of negative, avoidant, and impulsive styles among students.

 The aim of this study was to analyze the sexual health of adolescents living in residential centers based on the opinions of experts in the city of Isfahan.

 This qualitative study was conducted using thematic analysis. The participants included sexual health experts from the city of Isfahan, selected through purposive sampling based on inclusion criteria. These individuals were examined using semi-structured interviews, and data saturation was achieved with 10 interviews.

 After data analysis and coding, 94 initial codes, 11 axial codes, and 4 core codes were extracted. The core codes included the experience of negative emotions, various sexual disorders, experiences of neglect and rejection in the environment, and incorrect sexual upbringing. The axial codes were classified as feelings of hatred towards one's body due to sexual exploitation and income, belief in one's own badness due to sexual abuse, sexual problems of abused adolescents, inclination towards same-sex attraction, confusion about sexual orientation, sexual abuse of adolescents living in centers, lack of proper sexual education in the adolescents' families, inability to protect oneself due to the absence of support in situations of sexual abuse, compensating for rejection through non-committal sexual-emotional relationships, sexual vulnerability related to insecure attachment, and incorrect sources of sexual information.

 Based on the findings, it can be concluded that adolescents living in residential centers face sexual health problems. It is recommended that psychologists and supervisors of these centers use the findings of this study to improve the sexual health of adolescents.

 This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of mentalization-based training and positive thinking for parents of children with autism on their reflective functioning and their children's aggression.

 This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest-posttest design with a control group and a three-month follow-up. The statistical population included all parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) enrolled in day centers for education and rehabilitation of individuals with ASD in Tehran during the 2022-2023 academic year, and their children. A total of 32 parent-child pairs were selected using purposive sampling and were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (16 parents) or the control group (16 parents). Data collection tools for parents included the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (Fonagy, 2016), and for children, the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist Aggression Scale (2001) Parent Form. Initially, a pretest was administered to both groups, and the Aggression Scale was completed by the parents for their children. The mentalization-based and positive thinking training package (Fonagy) was then conducted in 12 sessions of 120 minutes each for the experimental group. Subsequently, a posttest was administered to both groups, and the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire and Positive Beliefs Questionnaire were completed by the mothers, while the Aggression Scale was again completed by the parents for their children. A follow-up phase occurred three months later. Data analysis was conducted using repeated measures analysis of variance.

 The results indicated that the impact of mentalization-based and positive thinking training on the components of reflective functioning (F = 14.35) and aggression (F = 7.17) in children was significant (P < 0.01), and this effect persisted through the follow-up phase.

 Given the results, it appears that mentalization-based and positive thinking training, by enhancing reflection on mental states, emotional regulation, and the ability to enjoy pleasant events, provides a suitable context for reflective functioning. This, in turn, leads to a reduction in aggression in children with autism.

 The objective of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of systemic family therapy in reducing alexithymia, increasing psychological capital, and enhancing mental vitality in mothers infected with COVID-19 who have autistic children.

 The research method was a quasi-experimental design utilizing a pretest-posttest and follow-up with a control group. The statistical population included mothers infected with COVID-19 who have autistic children in the city of Mashhad, referring to the Avaye Salamat Center (total number: 70 individuals). Data were collected using a cluster random sampling method, ultimately selecting 30 individuals and assigning them into two groups of 15 each, experimental and control. For data collection and assessment of desired features and conditions, demographic forms and marital intimacy, forgiveness, and marital burnout questionnaires were used. Participants in the experimental group underwent systemic family therapy according to Bowen's (2009) protocol in 8 sessions of 90 minutes each, twice a week. Data analysis was conducted using repeated measures analysis of variance and SPSS-16 statistical software.

 The results indicated that systemic family therapy significantly reduced alexithymia (F=6.25, P=0.004), increased psychological capital (F=9.65, P=0.001), and enhanced mental vitality (F=7.29, P=0.001) in mothers infected with COVID-19 who have autistic children (P<0.05).

 Systemic family therapy can be utilized to improve alexithymia, psychological capital, and mental vitality in mothers infected with COVID-19 who have autistic children.

 The aim of the present study was to predict psychological pain based on emotional expression with the mediation of fear of intimacy in girls with emotional breakup experience.

 The research design was applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-correlational in terms of method. The statistical population of the study included girls aged 20 to 35 with emotional breakup experience in Tehran in 2020, of whom 392 were selected using the convenience sampling method. They responded to the Auerbach and Mikulincer (2003) Mental Pain Questionnaire, the King and Emmons (1990) Emotional Expression Questionnaire, and the Descutner and Thelen (1991) Fear of Intimacy Scale. Data were analyzed using structural equations and SPSS and AMOS software.

 The findings showed that the direct path coefficient of fear of intimacy (ß = 0.15, p < 0.01) to psychological pain was positive and significant, but the path coefficients of the types of emotional expression to psychological pain were not significant (p > 0.05). The direct path coefficients of positive emotional expression (ß = -0.10, p < 0.05) and expression of intimacy (ß = -0.15, p < 0.01) to fear of intimacy were negative and significant, while the path coefficient of negative emotional expression (ß = 0.15, p < 0.01) to fear of intimacy was positive and significant. The indirect path coefficients of the types of emotional expression to psychological pain in girls with emotional breakup experience through fear of intimacy were not significant (p > 0.05).

 The results indicated that although fear of intimacy neutralized the effects of different types of emotional expression on psychological pain in girls with emotional breakup experience, it did not mediate the relationship between the types of emotional expression.

 The purpose of the present study is to analyze the challenges faced by the families of veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

 This research was conducted using a qualitative approach and grounded theory methodology. The statistical population consisted of 1,500 individuals, and participants were selected through purposive sampling based on the inclusion criteria. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved, resulting in the study of 42 families, including spouses and children of veterans with PTSD in Kermanshah province. Additionally, a literature review and semi-structured interviews with 10 experts and social work professionals in the field of family studies were conducted over a 12-month period in 2022. Data were analyzed using Strauss and Corbin’s method.

 The results were obtained through three stages of open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. Data analysis yielded 138 subcategories, 15 main categories, and 1 core category. The 15 main categories included: "quality of life issues, financial problems, internal family environment challenges, family functioning issues, psychological problems, parent-child relationship problems, challenges from surrounding individuals and social support networks, marital relationship issues, coping strategy problems, personality trait issues, life cycle challenges, organizational and cultural action problems, family outcome challenges, social outcome challenges, and individual outcome challenges." These were presented as causal, intervening, contextual factors, strategies, and outcomes in the final model.

 This study, in connection with the research literature, provided a new understanding of the experiences of families of veterans with PTSD by describing their challenges. The findings revealed that these families face significant issues in various aspects of their lives, and reducing these challenges requires greater attention from responsible organizations and mental health centers.