Comparing the Effectiveness of Group Schema Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program on Psychological Symptoms, Communication Beliefs, and Resilience Among Couples Applying for Divorce
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of group schema therapy and a mindfulness-based stress reduction program on psychological symptoms, communication beliefs, and resilience among couples applying for divorce. Methods and Materials: Using a quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test control group design with three-month follow-up, 60 divorce applicants were selected by convenience sampling and randomly assigned to three groups (two experimental and one control). Interventions included eight 90-minute sessions of group schema therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Measures included scales for depression, anxiety, stress, communication beliefs, and resilience. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA. Findings: Both interventions significantly reduced psychological symptoms and dysfunctional communication beliefs, and increased resilience. Mindfulness-based stress reduction was more effective than schema therapy in reducing psychological symptoms, whereas schema therapy was more effective in reducing dysfunctional communication beliefs. No significant difference was found between interventions in enhancing resilience. The intervention effects persisted at three-month follow-up. Conclusion: Both interventions can be considered effective approaches to improving psychological well-being and marital relations among couples at risk of divorce.
DOI: 10.61838/qecp.240
Institution: Islamic Azad University, Lahijan Branch
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7119085223