Applied Family Therapy Journal
Volume:5 Issue: 5, Winter 2025

Objective:

Attachment insecurities along with emotional processing difficulties, pose important risks on romantic relationships. This study aims to investigate possible associations and the interplay of alexithymia and attachment orientation on relationship quality in romantic couples.

  We used the actor–partner interdependence model and data from 56 heterosexual couples (N=112), who completed measures of attachment orientation, alexithymia and dyadic adjustment.

 Regression models indicated that both dimensions of attachment insecurity were associated with alexithymia and they consistently predicted lower relationship quality. Partner’s level of alexithymia moderated the relationship between attachment anxiety and dyadic adjustment. No significant interaction effects between attachment avoidance and alexithymia, were detected.

 The results point to the interdependent nature of emotional deficits and their effects on couple’s relationship quality. Theoretical implications and directions for future research are also discussed.

  By the end of 2014, an estimated 6,851,000 adult individuals were in the United States criminal justice system. Many of these individuals are racially and ethnically minoritized men. These families have been adversely impacted by the loss of adult family members who have been sent to prison. Family therapy has been recommended for successful reentry from incarceration into the home and community.

 Structural family therapy (SFT) aims to restructure the family’s organization to decrease dysfunction and establish flexible boundaries. SFT and the use of culturally sensitive practices are key to the success of family therapy for this population.

 This case study showcases SFT’s main components including rules, roles, hierarchies, and boundaries. Clinical implications advise to explore the effectiveness of using culturally informed care practices when using SFT models when a parent is incarcerated.

 Correctional facilities should take a deep dive into the importance of investing in programs of essential skills that will not only help the individual to return to society but can lead to the reduction of recidivism.

 This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of attachment-based, brain-based, and mindful parenting training on reducing parental stress in mothers of children exhibiting symptoms of social anxiety.

 A quasi-experimental design with a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up stages was used, involving 60 mothers from three elementary schools in Felard city. Participants were divided into four groups: attachment-based parenting, brain-based parenting, mindful parenting, and a control group. Each experimental group received eight 90-minute training sessions. Parental stress was measured using the Parenting Stress Index before and after the intervention and during follow-up. Data were analysed using SPSS-26 and analysis of variance with repeated measurements method.

 The brain-based parenting training significantly reduced parental stress in the post-test and follow-up stages compared to the control group. The attachment-based and mindful parenting trainings did not show significant effects on parental stress. Repeated measures ANOVA indicated significant within-group effects over time and interactions between time and group. The brain-based training had a notable impact on the mothers' ability to manage parenting stress effectively.

 Brain-based parenting training is an effective intervention for reducing parental stress among mothers of children with social anxiety symptoms. The findings highlight the importance of understanding brain functions in parenting strategies. Further research is needed to explore the potential long-term benefits of attachment-based and mindful parenting methods on parental stress.

  The aim of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of movement-based psychotherapy on couple intimacy.

 The research employed a single-case experimental design with multiple baselines. The statistical population consisted of all couples who visited counseling centers in Bojnord City in 2021. From this population, three couples who met the inclusion criteria were selected through purposive criterion-based sampling. Measurements were conducted using the validated Couple Intimacy Needs Questionnaire by Bagarozzi (2012). Participants were assessed over three baseline sessions, 12 intervention sessions, and three follow-up sessions. Data analysis was performed using visual analysis at both within-case and between-case levels.

 Results indicated an increase in intimacy for all participants. The graph lines demonstrated an upward trend in data changes during the intervention phase, with a high percentage of Nonoverlapping Data (PND) and a low percentage of Overlapping Data (POD). Additionally, in the follow-up phase, intimacy continued to increase for four individuals (two couples) and remained within the intervention range for two individuals (one couple), indicating that movement-based psychotherapy was effective in enhancing intimacy between couples.

 The results showed that movement-based psychotherapy, by utilizing the body as a tool to access the unconscious and applying techniques such as mirroring and fostering an understanding of each individual’s needs and emotions in their partner, increased awareness and recognition of personal and partner needs, thereby enhancing intimacy between couples. It is recommended that this method be implemented in therapeutic and counseling centers to enrich marital relationships.

 The present study aimed to design an educational package based on Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Compassion-Focused Therapy and evaluate its effectiveness on alexithymia and quality of life in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Tehran.

 This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a control group and pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments. Forty women with MS, who visited the MS Association in Tehran Province from October to February 2021, were selected based on research criteria through purposive sampling and were randomly assigned to two groups (using a random number table). After random assignment, one of the groups was randomly designated as the experimental group, receiving the researcher-developed integrative treatment package, and the other as the control group (n=20). The data collection tools included a demographic information questionnaire, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (Bagby, Taylor, & Parker, 1994), and the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 Instrument (Ware et al., 1988). Data were collected at three stages: baseline, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. The research hypotheses were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests.

 The results of this study indicated that the educational package based on Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Compassion-Focused Therapy significantly improved alexithymia (F=24.31, P<0.001) and quality of life (F=22.67, P<0.001) in women with MS.

 It can be concluded that the educational package based on Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Compassion-Focused Therapy is effective in improving alexithymia and quality of life in women with MS.

Objective:

The primary objective of this study was to examine the educational damages faced by children of divorce. Divorce is a significant life event that imposes stress on the entire family, especially on children.

 This study employed a systematic review of existing literature to identify key educational damages faced by children of divorce. A total of 3,296 articles were initially retrieved from databases, and through a rigorous selection process based on relevance, 27 studies were chosen for in-depth analysis. The indicators were categorized into 9 criteria using a coding framework, with each indicator representing a unique educational challenge or damage.

 The review identified 72 educational indicators categorized into key themes such as academic decline, dropout rates, concentration and attention issues, cognitive development impairments, and reduced resources for education. The most frequent issues were poor academic performance, lack of concentration, and dropout rates. Children from divorced families exhibited significantly more challenges in school performance, motivation for achievement, and learning compared to those from intact families. The absence of a stable emotional and financial environment exacerbated these issues, further contributing to academic setbacks.

 The findings highlight the severe impact of parental divorce on children's educational performance and mental well-being. Academic decline, lack of concentration, and emotional maladjustment are common issues, often leading to school dropout. Effective interventions, including parental education and structured support programs, are crucial to reducing the educational damages faced by children of divorce. Schools and counselors must be trained to address these challenges and work collaboratively with parents to create a supportive learning environment.

 The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of the premarital preparation program based on Olson's model with premarital education using the awareness and choice method on attitudes toward marriage among university students.

 The research method was quasi-experimental, employing a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design with experimental and control groups. The statistical population included students on the verge of marriage at Dezful University of Medical Sciences. Using convenience sampling and considering inclusion and exclusion criteria, three groups of 15 individuals each were selected as the sample and responded to the study's questionnaires.

 The results indicated that the impact of premarital education using the awareness and choice method on attitudes toward marriage in the post-test and follow-up phases was 46.5% and 22.2%, respectively, demonstrating the effectiveness of this intervention compared to the control group. Additionally, the impact of the premarital preparation program based on Olson's model on attitudes toward marriage in the post-test and follow-up phases was 69.7% and 57.3%, respectively, indicating the effectiveness of this intervention compared to the control group.

 It can be concluded that premarital education and preparation programs can assist in reducing divorce rates and facilitate better partner selection among couples.

 The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of an integrated intervention combining mentalization and the training package for building a secure bond on attachment styles in spouses with insecure attachment styles.

 This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest-posttest design with a control group and a two-month follow-up. The statistical population consisted of couples who had sought services from counseling and psychology centers in northern Tehran under the supervision of the Iranian Organization of Psychology and Counseling in 2022 and who were in the first five years of their marital life. Based on the inclusion criteria, 24 couples with insecure attachment styles were identified and randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. The intervention was implemented over 12 sessions, with weekly two-hour training sessions for the experimental group. Data were collected using the Attachment Styles Questionnaire (Bartholomew & Horowitz, 1991). The data were analyzed using mixed ANOVA with one within-subject factor (time) and one between-subject factor (experimental and control groups), Bonferroni post hoc test, and SPSS software version 25.

 The findings of this study indicated that the integrated intervention of mentalization and the training package for building a secure bond had a significant and positive effect on the attachment styles of couples (p < .01), and the effects were sustained after a two-month follow-up.

 Based on the obtained results, couples' therapists can use the integrated intervention of mentalization and building a secure bond to optimize attachment styles in couples with insecure attachment styles who are in the early years of their marital life.

 This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of parenting effectiveness training on the parent-child relationship in children aged 6 to 12 with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

 The research employed a quasi-experimental design using a pretest-posttest framework with a control group (one experimental group and one control group). The statistical population comprised male and female students aged 6 to 12 years with ADHD in Isfahan during the 2022-2023 academic year. The research sample consisted of 32 parents and students with ADHD, who were purposefully selected and randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups. Participants were chosen based on research inclusion criteria. The Parent Effectiveness Training (PET) program included 8 training sessions for parents. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. At the descriptive level, frequency tables, percentage distributions, mean, and standard deviation were calculated. At the inferential level, after verifying the assumptions for parametric testing, univariate and multivariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA and MANCOVA) were performed.

 The results indicated that parenting effectiveness training had a significant effect on the parent-child relationship at the p < .05 level.

 The findings suggest that parenting effectiveness training positively influences the parent-child relationship in children aged 6 to 12 with ADHD and is an effective intervention method.

 The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between rumination and coping strategies with marital self-disclosure.

 This research is fundamental in terms of its objective and descriptive-correlational in terms of data collection. The statistical population of this study consisted of all married women at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Central Tehran Branch, during the academic year 2022-2023. To this end, 385 women were selected using Cochran’s formula and convenience sampling method. Participants responded to the Marital Self-Disclosure Questionnaire by Waring et al. (1998), the Ruminative Response Scale by Nolen-Hoeksema et al. (1993), and the Brief COPE Inventory by Endler and Parker (2008). After collecting the questionnaires, the data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and simultaneous multiple regression analysis.

 The results indicated a significant negative correlation between rumination, avoidance-oriented coping strategies, and emotion-focused coping strategies with marital self-disclosure (p < .01). There was a significant positive correlation between problem-focused coping strategies and marital self-disclosure (p < .01).

 The results of the multiple regression analysis also revealed that 71.6% of the variance in marital self-disclosure is explained by rumination and coping strategies. Therefore, it can be concluded that rumination and coping strategies can predict marital self-disclosure among married women.

  This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Stress Inoculation Training (SIT) on improving co-parenting quality and reducing interpersonal obsessive-compulsive symptoms in mothers with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

 This study employed a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design with 30 mothers diagnosed with OCD, randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n = 15) or the control group (n = 15). The intervention group received eight 60-minute SIT sessions over eight weeks. Co-parenting quality and interpersonal obsessive-compulsive symptoms were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and four-month follow-up using validated questionnaires. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with repeated measurements and Bonferroni post-hoc tests, conducted via SPSS-27.

 The intervention group showed significant improvements in co-parenting quality from baseline (M = 48.67, SD = 8.92) to post-intervention (M = 58.92, SD = 7.41), with effects maintained at the four-month follow-up (M = 56.80, SD = 7.93). Interpersonal obsessive-compulsive symptoms significantly decreased from baseline (M = 30.53, SD = 6.47) to post-intervention (M = 22.17, SD = 5.32), with sustained reductions at follow-up (M = 24.40, SD = 5.89). The ANOVA results indicated significant effects of time (p < .001) and group (p < .001), as well as significant time-by-group interactions (p < .001) for both variables.

 SIT significantly enhances co-parenting quality and reduces interpersonal obsessive-compulsive symptoms in mothers with OCD. These improvements were maintained at the four-month follow-up, indicating the intervention's long-term efficacy. SIT offers a promising therapeutic approach for addressing the unique challenges faced by parents with OCD.

  This study aimed to investigate the predictive relationships between social anxiety and the psychological constructs of rumination, self-focused attention, and social intimacy among women. Specifically, it sought to determine how these variables influence the levels of social anxiety in a female population.

 A cross-sectional design was utilized, with a sample size of 350 female participants determined by Morgan and Krejcie's table. Standardized measurement tools were employed, including the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) for social anxiety, the Ruminative Responses Scale (RRS) for rumination, the Self-Focused Attention Scale (SFAS) for self-focused attention, and the Miller Social Intimacy Scale (MSIS) for social intimacy. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression, conducted using SPSS version 27.

 Descriptive statistics showed mean scores of 45.23 (SD = 11.56) for social anxiety, 52.14 (SD = 12.75) for rumination, 30.56 (SD = 8.49) for self-focused attention, and 40.85 (SD = 9.22) for social intimacy. Pearson correlations revealed significant relationships between social anxiety and rumination (r = 0.61, p < 0.001), self-focused attention (r = 0.58, p < 0.001), and social intimacy (r = -0.49, p < 0.001). The regression model was highly significant (F = 320.77, p < 0.001), explaining 65% of the variance in social anxiety (R² = 0.65, R² adjusted = 0.64).

 The study confirmed that rumination and self-focused attention significantly predict social anxiety, with social intimacy showing a protective effect. These findings underscore the importance of addressing cognitive patterns and enhancing interpersonal relationships in interventions aimed at reducing social anxiety among women.

 The present study aims to determine the effectiveness of schema-based parenting training on parenting stress, and the quality of parent-child interactions among mothers of children aged 4 to 12 years.

 This research is applied in nature and semi-experimental with a pre-test, post-test, and one-month follow-up design with a control group. The statistical population included mothers of children aged 4 to 12 years who visited counseling centers in District 1 of Tehran. From this population, 45 individuals were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two groups of 15 (schema-based parenting training and control group). Data were collected using the Pianta Parent-Child Interaction (1994) and the Abidin Parenting Stress Index (1984). Schema-based parenting training, which encompasses educational topics, was delivered to the mothers in 8 weekly sessions, each lasting 90 minutes. For data analysis, which involved two experimental groups and one control group across three time points, a mixed ANOVA with repeated measures was utilized, and the data were analyzed using SPSS 25 software.

 The results showed that schema-based parenting training significantly affected parenting stress symptoms (F=30.383, P=0.001, η²=0.52) and the quality of parenting interactions (F=7.057, P=0.002, η²=0.201).

 It can be concluded that schema-based parenting training effectively reduces parental stress symptoms, and the persistence of the training effect during the follow-up phase indicates the intervention's lasting impact on parental stress.

 This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of pre-marital education based on Eric Berne's theory and expert-centered pre-marital education on emotional experiences related to marriage.

 The research was quasi-experimental with a pre-test, post-test design, including two experimental groups and one control group. The statistical population comprised all students on the verge of marriage, and the sample included 45 students who were voluntarily selected and randomly distributed into three groups of 15. The research instrument was the Emotional Experience towards Marriage Questionnaire (Yousefi et al., 2023). While the control group was on the waiting list, the experimental groups received eight ninety-minute sessions of pre-marital education based on Eric Berne's theory and expert-centered approach. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (multivariate analysis of covariance).

 The results showed that expert-centered pre-marital education did not improve positive emotional experiences; however, it improved both dimensions of emotional experiences towards marriage.

 Based on these results, it can be concluded that pre-marital education based on Eric Berne's theory is stronger than the expert-centered method and has the potential to improve emotional experiences related to marriage.

 This study aims to explore the sociological factors, contextual conditions, structural factors, and social pressures contributing to emotional divorce in Tehran.

 The study employs a qualitative approach using a sequential exploratory design and grounded theory strategy. A purposive sample of 21 individuals, aged 25-40, with at least a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, or related fields, participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using open coding and axial coding processes to identify key structures and indices related to emotional divorce. The participants included university lecturers, teachers, housewives, and private sector employees, ensuring a diverse representation of educated individuals with relevant expertise.

 The results indicate that attitudes and values, social and cultural pressure, and social changes are significant causal factors in the occurrence of emotional divorce. Key phenomena identified include changes in emotional relationships, lack of emotional behavior towards the spouse, emotional void, and compulsory living. Contextual conditions such as changes in culture, values, economic conditions, and types of social interactions were influential. Structural factors identified include policies and laws, and social roles. Social pressures, including peer pressure, family opinions, and media influence, were crucial intervening factors. An educational approach was identified as an effective strategy for preventing and managing emotional divorce.

 Emotional divorce, while not always visible, significantly impacts individuals and society. Understanding its sociological aspects and underlying causes is essential for developing effective prevention and management strategies. Educational programs aimed at improving emotional relationships, communication skills, and stress management can mitigate the negative impacts. Policymakers can use these insights to formulate supportive policies and laws. Further research is needed to generalize findings and explore the impact of emotional divorce on children and other regions.

 This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of schema therapy on reducing sexual aversion and enhancing sexual self-efficacy.

 The research utilized a semi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments. Thirty couples experiencing sexual aversion and low sexual self-efficacy were selected from counseling centers in Karaj, Iran. Participants were randomly assigned to either a schema therapy group (n=15) or a control group (n=15). The schema therapy group received 8 to 10 sessions of intervention. Two standardized questionnaires, the Sexual Self-Efficacy Questionnaire and the Sexual Aversion Inventory, were used to measure outcomes. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA), and follow-up tests were conducted to assess the stability of the intervention effects over time.

 The findings revealed that schema therapy significantly improved sexual self-efficacy and reduced sexual aversion in the experimental group compared to the control group (p < .01). These improvements were sustained during the follow-up phase, with no significant decline in outcomes. The post-test and follow-up results demonstrated that schema therapy had a lasting positive impact on participants’ sexual health. The control group, in contrast, showed no significant changes across the measurement phases.

 Schema therapy was found to be an effective intervention for reducing sexual aversion and increasing sexual self-efficacy. The sustained improvements suggest that schema therapy offers long-term benefits for individuals struggling with these sexual issues. This study highlights the importance of addressing early maladaptive schemas to improve sexual health and relationship satisfaction.

 This study aims to identify the criteria for a successful marriage through a qualitative approach using grounded theory methodology.

 This qualitative study employed grounded theory with a systematic approach. Participants included 12 married individuals from Iran, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding following Strauss and Corbin’s method. Lincoln and Guba’s criteria for trustworthiness were applied to ensure the reliability of findings.

 The study identified five paradigms: central factors, causal factors, contextual factors, facilitating factors, and outcomes, encompassing 11 main categories, 21 subcategories, and 45 initial codes. The central category of "couple interactions" included emotional regulation, mutual understanding, intimacy, commitment, and satisfaction as key indicators of a successful marriage. Causal factors included initial attraction, emotional maturity, and family interactions during courtship, while facilitating factors highlighted family support. Contextual factors such as economic, cultural, familial, and individual aspects were also significant.

 The findings emphasize that successful marriages are influenced by a combination of individual, relational, and contextual factors. Practical applications include incorporating these insights into premarital counseling, marital therapy, and educational programs to promote emotional well-being, mutual understanding, and satisfaction in marital relationships.

 The present study aimed to examine the role of socio-cultural factors (cultural values of marriage and perceived social support) in the criteria for partner selection among students of Shiraz city.

 This research employed a descriptive and correlational design. The statistical population consisted of all students of Islamic Azad University, Shiraz branch, who were studying in the year 2022. A sample of 377 individuals (235 females and 142 males) was selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling method. The participants were assessed using the Marriage Cultural Values Questionnaire (Delkhomoush, 2013), the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale (Zimet et al., 1988), and the Partner Selection Criteria Questionnaire (Schwartz & Hassebrook, 2012). After collection, the questionnaires were edited using SPSS software, and 26 items were analyzed at both descriptive and inferential levels.

 The analysis of the findings using multiple regression in a simultaneous method revealed that intellectual self-construal, emotional self-construal, hierarchical cultural values, and perceived social support significantly and positively influenced the partner selection criteria of the participants. Additionally, the results from the stepwise multiple regression analysis indicated that among the socio-cultural factors, intellectual self-construal had the most substantial role in partner selection criteria.

 Therefore, in the modern era, with the development of individuals' socio-economic status, partner selection criteria have become more individualistic and oriented towards personal love and affection.

 This study aimed to predict self-harming behaviors based on cognitive emotion regulation strategies and emotional distress tolerance, with the mediating role of internalized shame in adolescents visiting harm reduction centers in Tehran.

 The research employed a descriptive correlational design. The statistical population included adolescents aged 14 to 18 who attended drop-in harm reduction centers in District 12 of Tehran (Shush-Harandi neighborhood) during the first four months of 2022. A total of 300 participants were selected using purposive sampling. The research tools included the Self-Injury Questionnaire (Sansone et al., 1998), the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (Garnefski et al., 2001), the Distress Tolerance Scale (Simons & Gaher, 2005), and the Internalized Shame Scale (Cook, 1993). Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling and AMOS24 software.

 The results indicated a relationship between cognitive emotion regulation strategies (-0.39), emotional distress tolerance (-0.41), internalized shame (0.36), and self-harming behaviors (P < 0.01). Furthermore, internalized shame mediated the relationship between cognitive emotion regulation strategies (B = 0.52) and emotional distress tolerance (B = 0.45) with self-harming behaviors in adolescents (P < 0.01).

 Based on these findings, it can be concluded that since internalized shame mediates the relationship between cognitive emotion regulation strategies and emotional distress tolerance with self-harming behaviors, focusing on factors influencing these behaviors can help reduce the risks associated with this developmental period.

 The present study aimed to determine the relationship between mental health and mental toughness with the meaning in life in families of children with autism.

 The statistical population included all families with children with autism registered in the Autism Society of Tehran in 2022 (totaling 2,040 individuals). From this population, 322 participants were selected using convenience sampling based on Morgan's table. Participants were assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) by Goldberg (1999), the Mental Toughness Questionnaire by Clough, Earle, and Sewell (2002), and the Meaning in Life Questionnaire by Steger, Frazier, Oishi, and Kaler (2006). Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple regression tests via SPSS version 23.

 The findings revealed a significant relationship between meaning in life and both mental health and mental toughness in families of children with autism. The dimensions of mental health significantly predicted the presence of meaning and the search for meaning in life. Furthermore, the dimensions of mental toughness were also significant predictors of the presence of meaning and the search for meaning (P < 0.001).

 Based on the results, the role of mental health and mental toughness is crucial in fostering a positive experience of meaning in life for families of children with autism.

 The primary aim of this study was to integrate the role of social networks and subjective norms into the theoretical framework of the investment model of relationships to predict marital stability among divorce-seeking couples in the city of Ilam.

 This research employed a correlational design. The statistical population included all divorce-seeking couples in Ilam during 2019–2020 who visited family courts, counseling centers, and divorce registry offices. A sample of 160 participants was selected using convenience sampling. Data collection utilized the following instruments: the Marital Instability Index (Edwards et al., 1987), the Social Networks in Marital Relationships Scale (researcher-developed, 2019), the Subjective Norms in Marital Relationships Scale (researcher-developed, 2019), and Rusbult’s Investment Model Scale (1980). Data analysis was conducted using path analysis via AMOS version 23.

 The findings indicated that the tested model exhibited acceptable fit. Significant positive correlations were found between marital satisfaction and marital commitment, while significant negative correlations were observed between the quality of alternative relationships and marital commitment. Additionally, relationship investment and marital commitment were significantly positively correlated. A significant relationship was identified between marital commitment and marital instability at the level of p<0.05. However, no significant relationship was observed between social networks and marital commitment or between subjective norms in marital relationships and marital commitment. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that marital commitment mediated the relationship between satisfaction with the relationship and marital instability (p≤.05), the quality of alternative relationships and marital instability (p≤.05), relationship investment and marital instability (p≤.01), and subjective norms and marital instability (p≤.05). However, marital commitment did not significantly mediate the relationship between the influence of social networks in marital relationships and marital instability.

 Based on the findings and the role of subjective norms and social networks within Rusbult’s investment model, the results of this study can be utilized in counseling centers to enhance and prevent the instability of marital relationships.

 This study aimed to investigate marital satisfaction based on father involvement in parenting, problem-solving skills, and cognitive emotion regulation through emotional empathy in mothers of children with cerebral palsy.

 The research design was descriptive-survey and used a structural equations approach. The statistical population included 148 mothers of children with cerebral palsy in the city of Rasht in 2022. Using a census and purposive sampling method, all 148 individuals were selected as the sample. Data were collected using the ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Questionnaire, Alabama Parenting Test (Parent Form), Family Problem-Solving Questionnaire, Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, and Emotional Empathy Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS (version 28) and Lisrel (version 10).

 The findings showed a direct relationship between father involvement in parenting, problem-solving skills, cognitive emotion regulation, and emotional empathy with marital satisfaction (p ≤ .01). An indirect relationship was also found between father involvement in parenting, problem-solving skills, and cognitive emotion regulation through the mediation of emotional empathy with marital satisfaction (p ≤ .01).

 To alleviate or reduce the burden on mothers of children with cerebral palsy, fathers must actively participate in parenting. This collaboration enables both parents to solve problems and control negative emotions while supporting each other with a high level of emotional empathy, thereby fostering and enhancing marital satisfaction.

 The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of an integrative pre-marital training package based on Bowen's intergenerational theory and life design model with the SYMBIS approach on marital choice orientation.

 A quasi-experimental research design with a pretest-posttest-follow-up model and two experimental groups and one control group was utilized. The statistical population consisted of university students in Isfahan. The sample included 45 female students selected through convenience sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and randomly assigned to three groups (integrative training group, SYMBIS group, and control group), each containing 20 participants. The experimental groups received eight 90-minute training sessions, while the control group was placed on a waiting list. All three groups completed research instruments at the pretest, posttest, and follow-up stages. The research instrument was the Marital Choice Orientation Questionnaire (Yousefi, 2023). Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA.

 Results indicated that both the integrative training group and the SYMBIS group significantly influenced marital choice orientation (F = 15.5, P = 0.001), and this effect remained stable during the follow-up phase (P < 0.05).

 The findings revealed that both methods had a significant and comparable impact on improving the dependent variable, suggesting their utility in enhancing marital choice orientation.

 The aim of the present study was to validate the Emotional Responses to Sexual Infidelity Scale in individuals affected by sexual infidelity.

 This research employed a descriptive-analytical validation approach. The statistical population comprised individuals affected by sexual infidelity by their spouses, who sought assistance from psychological counseling centers and the Dispute Resolution Council in the city of Gorgan in 2023. A sample of 415 individuals was selected using a sample size estimation method. Data were collected using the Emotional Responses to Sexual Infidelity Scale developed by Turliuca & Scutarua (2014). After evaluating content validity, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to assess construct validity. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used to examine reliability, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient test was applied for further investigation of the main research variables. Analyses were conducted using SPSS and AMOS24 software.

 Confirmatory factor analysis findings demonstrated that the single-factor model of the Emotional Responses to Sexual Infidelity Scale exhibited good fit, based on the following indices: RMSEA = 0.05, CFI = 0.92, TLI = 0.91, and IFI = 0.92. The reliability of the 27-item Emotional Responses to Sexual Infidelity Scale was determined to be 0.81 based on Cronbach’s alpha. The content validity of the questionnaire exceeded 0.99. Bartlett’s test yielded a chi-square value of 748.65, degrees of freedom of 105, a significance level of 0.001, and KMO = 0.77.

 The results indicate that the present scale has favorable psychometric properties for use in the Iranian population of individuals affected by sexual infidelity. It can be employed as a reliable instrument in future research and diagnostic contexts.

 The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of paradoxical couple therapy on self-differentiation, communication beliefs, and marital intimacy in couples experiencing marital conflict.

 This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up, using a control group. The statistical population consisted of all couples with marital conflict in Tehran in 2023. Fourteen couples experiencing marital conflict were selected using a non-random, purposive sampling method, and then, through random assignment, 7 couples were assigned to the experimental group and 7 couples to the control group. The experimental group participated in 8 sessions of paradoxical couple therapy, and after dropouts, 6 participants successfully completed the therapy. The control group received no intervention. To match the number of participants, couples were randomly excluded from the control group to account for dropouts in the experimental group. The study utilized questionnaires measuring self-differentiation, communication beliefs, and marital intimacy. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and SPSS 22 software.

 The findings indicated that there was a significant difference between the post-test mean scores of the experimental and control groups. Paradoxical couple therapy significantly improved self-differentiation (F = 4.93, p = 0.035) and marital intimacy (F = 41.16, p = 0.001).

 Based on the results of this study, interventions based on the paradoxical approach can effectively improve self-differentiation, communication beliefs, and marital intimacy.

 The aim of this study is to qualitatively analyze the consequences of online extramarital relationships from the perspective of men.

 This research was conducted using a qualitative approach, employing content analysis. Based on the principle of theoretical saturation, twelve men participated in this study. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection, and MAXQDA software was used for coding and categorizing the data.

 The consequences of online extramarital relationships among men can be classified into two main categories and five subcategories. The results indicate that hiding the relationship while maintaining marital life, public disclosure, divorce, and separation are among the consequences of online extramarital relationships from the men's perspective.

 In conclusion, this study highlights the complex dynamics of online infidelity among men in Mashhad, Iran, revealing key themes such as relationship concealment, marital dissatisfaction, and the impact on trust and family stability. The findings underscore the importance of understanding cultural and individual factors in the context of extramarital relationships and provide a foundation for future research on the psychological and relational consequences of online infidelity.

 The present study aimed to explore the socio-cultural challenges of family therapy. This applied research utilized a qualitative phenomenological approach.

 The study population consisted of specialists in various fields of couples and family therapy in Tehran province during the years 2022-2023, who met the inclusion criteria for the study. The inclusion criteria were psychologists or counselors with a Master's or Doctoral degree who had at least five years of experience in one of the family-related fields and were willing to collaborate in the research. A purposive, snowball sampling method was used, continuing until data saturation was reached, with a final selection of 15 specialists. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection, and the data were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach.

 The findings revealed 24 initial concepts, 5 sub-themes, and 2 main themes as the socio-cultural challenges and factors that perpetuate these challenges. Ineffective application of existing family therapy theories in response to societal changes, social harms affecting family systems over time, and socio-cultural-economic damages were among the sub-themes of challenges. Differences in opinions regarding the strengthening of theory-building and the approach to localizing interventions without relying on existing theories were identified as factors that sustain these challenges.

 This study offers a new perspective on the impact of societal context on the effective or ineffective implementation of interventions based on non-native theories, providing an alternative approach to examining the issues of cultural insularity in interventions, beyond considerations of religion and written documents in research.

 The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of integrative systemic-psychodynamic-behavioral couples therapy on marital quality of life in dysfunctional couples referred to counseling centers in Ahvaz.

 The research design was a single-case experimental design. The study population included all dysfunctional couples who visited counseling centers in Ahvaz in 2019. A convenience sampling method was used, selecting three couples with low marital quality of life, who then received integrative systemic-psychodynamic-behavioral couples therapy over 12 sessions, each lasting 1.5 hours. The Perceived Marital Quality Dimensions Questionnaire (Fletcher et al., 2000) was used in this study. To analyze the data, visual analysis, the stability index, and the percentage of improvement were used.

 The results showed that the stability index during both the treatment and follow-up phases was significant. The overall percentage of improvement also indicated that the effectiveness of integrative systemic-psychodynamic-behavioral therapy on marital quality of life in dysfunctional couples, based on Blanchard’s classification, fell within the "slight improvement" category during both the treatment and follow-up phases, which generally suggested the success of the intervention in improving marital quality of life in dysfunctional couples.

 Based on the findings, it can be concluded that integrative systemic-psychodynamic-behavioral couples therapy can lead to an improvement in marital quality of life.

 The present study aimed to explain attitudes toward extramarital relationships based on personality dimensions and sexual schemas, with the mediating role of sexual novelty-seeking.

 This research employed a descriptive-correlational design. The statistical population included all couples who referred to psychological counseling centers and family courts in Tehran in 2021. The sample size was determined as 674 individuals based on Morgan's table and selected using a convenience sampling method considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. Individuals with anxiety or mood disorders were excluded from the study. Research instruments included the Attitudes Toward Extramarital Relationships Questionnaire by Mark (2006), the NEO Personality Inventory-Revised (2004), the Questionnaire of Cognitive Schema Activation in Sexual Contexts (QCSASC), and the Glass and Wright Justification for Extramarital Relationships Questionnaire (1992). Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling and path analysis with LISREL software version 10.20.

 Results indicated that 30.7% of the variance in attitudes toward extramarital relationships was indirectly explained by personality dimensions and sexual schemas, with the mediating role of sexual novelty-seeking. Based on the findings, attitudes toward extramarital relationships were positively and significantly predicted by neuroticism (path coefficient = 0.25), openness to experience (path coefficient = 0.84), sexual schemas (path coefficient = 0.27), and sexual novelty-seeking (path coefficient = 0.16).

 The findings revealed that attitudes toward extramarital relationships were negatively and significantly predicted by agreeableness (path coefficient = -0.38) and conscientiousness (path coefficient = -0.33). Thus, personality traits and sexual schemas predict extramarital relationships and sexual novelty-seeking.

 The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on the psychological well-being of couples referring to the Dispute Resolution Council in Omidiyeh County.

 This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test, post-test, and control group, along with a 45-day follow-up period. The statistical population consisted of couples who referred to the Dispute Resolution Council in Omidiyeh County in 2021. In the initial phase, a purposive sampling method was used to select 30 participants. These individuals were chosen from among those who had been engaged or married for four or five years, expressed a desire for separation, and had sought assistance from the Dispute Resolution Council. They were randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the control group. The experimental group underwent eight sessions of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, while the control group received no intervention and remained on a waiting list.

 The mean age in the ACT group was 33.31 ± 5 years, in the solution-focused approach group was 32.50 ± 3.72 years, and in the control group was 33.68 ± 5.04 years. The results of the mixed-design analysis of variance indicated that the intervention had a statistically significant effect on the dimensions of psychological well-being in the post-test and follow-up stages compared to the control group (p < .05). Furthermore, the results of the Bonferroni post hoc test demonstrated that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy was more effective in improving conflict resolution styles (p < .05).

 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can be considered an effective approach for reducing problems arising from marital conflicts among individuals referring to the Dispute Resolution Council.