Health Psychology

The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Body Image Concern, Fear of Negative Evaluation, and Peer Relationships in Girls with Precocious Puberty

Fatemeh Zahra Mazhari; Babollah Bakhshipour Joybari; Hoda babai kafaki

Volume 14, Issue 55 , November 2025, Pages 7-26

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2025.73842.6203

Abstract

Objective: One of the common psychological challenges during adolescence is precocious puberty. Differentiating between normal and real precocious puberty, especially in its early stages, can be complex and difficult due to the subtle and overlapping nature of symptoms. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral ... Read More Objective: One of the common psychological challenges during adolescence is precocious puberty. Differentiating between normal and real precocious puberty, especially in its early stages, can be complex and difficult due to the subtle and overlapping nature of symptoms. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MB-CBT) has emerged as a promising intervention specifically aimed at improving the psychological well-being of adolescents experiencing early puberty. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of MB-CBT on body image concerns, fear of negative evaluation, and peer relationships in adolescent girls with precocious puberty. Method: This research employed a quasi-experimental design using a pretest-posttest structure with a control group and random selection. The statistical population included all girls aged 11 to 13 diagnosed with precocious puberty who visited the Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic in Sari over the past five years (from the first half of 2019 to the first half of 2023). Based on the clinic’s records, approximately 400 individuals met the inclusion criteria. Through purposive sampling, 30 girls were selected based on their demographic characteristics, including age, gender, and medical history. These participants were then randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 15) and a control group (n = 15). Both groups completed pretest and posttest assessments. The experimental group participated in an 8-session MB-CBT intervention, each session lasting 90 minutes and conducted once a week over two months. The protocol was based on the MB-CBT manual developed by Bahraini et al. (2022). The control group did not receive any psychological intervention but remained in contact with the research team throughout the study. Data collection tools included the Body Image Concern Inventory (Littleton et al., 2005), the Fear of Negative Evaluation Scale (Leary, 1983), and the Peer Relationship Questionnaire (Hudson, 1992). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) in SPSS version 26. Assumptions of normality were tested using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Results: The analysis confirmed that the data met the assumptions of normality. After controlling for the pretest scores, the results indicated significant differences between the experimental and control groups in the posttest scores for all three variables: body image concern (F = 21.07, p < .05), fear of negative evaluation (F = 50.29, p < .05), and peer relationships (F = 58.19, p < .05). These findings support the effectiveness of MB-CBT in alleviating psychological difficulties associated with early puberty. Conclusion: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps adolescent girls with early puberty better identify and manage negative thoughts related to body image by promoting present-moment awareness and nonjudgmental acceptance. Rather than directly challenging these thoughts, the intervention modifies the individual’s relationship with them, reducing mental rumination and psychological distress. Moreover, MB-CBT can effectively reduce fear of negative evaluation by increasing awareness of negative thought patterns and encouraging nonjudgmental acceptance, ultimately improving performance in social settings. By disrupting maladaptive cognitive cycles, this approach facilitates the development of healthier cognitive patterns, preventing the reinforcement of social anxiety. Thus, MB-CBT can be recommended as an effective intervention for reducing body image concerns and fear of negative evaluation, and for improving peer relationships in adolescent girls with precocious puberty. It is also suggested for use by child and adolescent psychologists, counselors, and educators working with this population.

Comparative Study of the Psychological Distress and Suicidal Behaviors among Gender Dysphoria with Applicant for Surgery, Surgery with Normal People

Ali Afshari

Volume 14, Issue 55 , November 2025, Pages 27-40

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2025.72602.6127

Abstract

Objective: Sexual dissatisfaction is a group of disorders whose main symptom is a persistent preference for playing the role of the opposite sex and having the feeling that the patient was born with the wrong sex, and this wrongness is very anxiety-provoking and a cause of depression for these people. ... Read More Objective: Sexual dissatisfaction is a group of disorders whose main symptom is a persistent preference for playing the role of the opposite sex and having the feeling that the patient was born with the wrong sex, and this wrongness is very anxiety-provoking and a cause of depression for these people. In most cases, these people try to change their sex, which is unacceptable by society and family and can cause many problems for the individual. The aim of the present study was to compare psychological distress and suicidal behaviors among gender dissatisfied patients who applied for surgery, underwent surgery, and normal individuals. Method: The present study was a causal comparative study. The statistical population included all surgical candidates, those who underwent surgery, and 90 normal subjects (30 subjects for each group). In order to collect research data, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (Lavibond and Lavibond, 1995), the Suicidality Questionnaire (Beck, 1961), and the Revised Suicide Questionnaire (Osman et al., 2001) were used. Multivariate analysis of variance was used to analyze the data using SPSS version 22 software. Results: Based on the results obtained, there is a significant difference between the surgical candidate and normal subjects in all three variables of anxiety, stress, and depression. There is also a significant difference between suicidal thoughts and attempts during life between the applicant and normal groups and between the normal and surgical groups (P <0.05). There is a significant difference between the applicant and surgical groups and between the normal and surgical groups in the frequency of suicide attempts in the past year (P <0.05). There is a significant difference between the applicant and surgical groups and between the normal and surgical groups in the threat of suicide (P <0.05). There is a significant difference between the applicant and surgical groups in the probability of attempting suicide in the future (P <0.05). Finally, there is a significant difference between the applicant and surgical groups and between the normal and surgical groups in suicidal thoughts (P <0.05). Conclusion: The results indicate that correct diagnosis and gender reassignment among gender dysphoric individuals can have a positive effect on mental health and reduce suicidal behaviors .

Cognitive Flexibility and Psychological Function in Asthmatics

Kajbaf Mohammad Bagher; Moslem Siahpoush monfared

Volume 14, Issue 55 , November 2025, Pages 41-56

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2025.74525.6245

Abstract

Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on perceived stress, cognitive flexibility, and psychological functioning among patients with asthma. Asthma is not only a chronic respiratory condition but also a disorder that exerts a profound ... Read More Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on perceived stress, cognitive flexibility, and psychological functioning among patients with asthma. Asthma is not only a chronic respiratory condition but also a disorder that exerts a profound psychological burden on individuals, often leading to heightened stress, maladaptive coping strategies, and diminished quality of life. Therefore, addressing psychological aspects alongside medical treatment is of paramount importance. Method: This research employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test assessments and a control group. The study population comprised asthma patients who attended specialized asthma and allergy clinics in Khoramabad during 2022. Using purposive sampling, 30 eligible participants were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria required having a confirmed asthma diagnosis within the past year, being between 20 and 45 years of age, willingness and ability to regularly attend therapeutic sessions, and sufficient literacy to respond to questionnaires. Exclusion criteria included absence from more than two therapeutic sessions, lack of cooperation, unwillingness to continue participation, comorbid medical or psychological conditions, substance abuse, or incomplete responses to research instruments. Participants were randomly assigned into two equal groups (n = 15 per group). The experimental group received eight structured sessions of group-based ACT, while the control group continued to receive only routine medical treatment. Data were collected using three standardized self-report measures: the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Cognitive Flexibility Inventory (CFI), and the Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale (DASS-21). Pre-test questionnaires were administered to both groups before the intervention, and post-tests were administered after completion of the therapeutic sessions. Statistical analyses were conducted using descriptive indicators, paired and independent t-tests, as well as multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) via SPSS version 26. Results: The average age of participants was 39.76 ± 11.05 years in the experimental group and 39.66 ± 9.74 years in the control group. The results of paired-sample t-tests indicated that, following the ACT intervention, participants in the experimental group experienced statistically significant improvements in perceived stress, cognitive flexibility, and psychological functioning (P<0.05). In contrast, no significant changes were observed within the control group. Furthermore, independent t-test results confirmed that there were no significant differences between the two groups in pre-test scores, ensuring initial homogeneity. Assumptions of normality and equality of variances were also met, as confirmed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene’s tests (P>0.05). MANCOVA results revealed significant between-group differences in the post-test phase, favoring the experimental group, with an effect size (Eta squared) of 0.66. This suggests that approximately 66% of the observed changes in outcome measures were attributable to the ACT intervention. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is an effective psychological intervention for asthma patients. By reducing perceived stress and enhancing cognitive flexibility, ACT contributes to improved psychological functioning and overall well-being. These results underscore the importance of integrating psychological therapies such as ACT into comprehensive asthma management programs, thereby addressing both physical and psychological dimensions of the illness. Future research is recommended to replicate these findings with larger samples and to explore the long-term effects of ACT in chronic respiratory conditions.

Validation and Norming of the Body Acceptance Scale in Women with Breast Cancer (BAS-BC)

Esmaiel soleymany; hanie pakravan

Volume 14, Issue 55 , November 2025, Pages 57-72

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2025.73937.6213

Abstract

Objective: Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies affecting women globally, with significant physical, psychological, and social consequences. Treatments such as mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy often lead to body image disturbances, reduced self-esteem, and lower quality ... Read More Objective: Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies affecting women globally, with significant physical, psychological, and social consequences. Treatments such as mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy often lead to body image disturbances, reduced self-esteem, and lower quality of life. Among psychological coping strategies, body acceptance, defined as acknowledging, normalizing, and adapting to bodily changes, plays a key role in promoting mental well-being in breast cancer patients. This study aimed to validate and norm the Body Acceptance Scale for Women with Breast Cancer (BAS-BC), a newly developed instrument designed to assess body acceptance among breast cancer survivors. The research evaluated the psychometric properties of the BAS-BC in an Iranian population. Method: A descriptive validation design was employed. Participants included 457 Iranian women diagnosed with breast cancer, recruited via convenience sampling. Data were collected online through validated instruments: BAS-BC (Ahn & Suh, 2023), the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ), and the SF-36 Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Pearson correlation, and Cronbach’s alpha, were conducted using SPSS-23 and AMOS-24. Results: CFA supported a six-factor structure of the BAS-BC (exposure, perception, adaptation, return to daily life, successful transition, and leap toward the future), consisting of 17 items. The scale demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.84). Convergent validity was confirmed through significant correlations between BAS-BC scores and both MBSRQ and SF-36 measures. The six factors explained 82.5% of the total variance, indicating strong construct validity. Conclusion: The BAS-BC offers a robust tool for both research and clinical assessment of body acceptance among breast cancer patients. Its application can inform personalized therapeutic approaches aimed at improving psychosocial outcomes and quality of life. Future research should explore cultural influences on body acceptance and develop targeted interventions to support body image adjustment in this population.

Validation of the Persian Version of the Negative Problem Orientation Questionnaire in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Maryam Shahmoradi Pilehrood; Majid Zarghamhajebi; Malek Mirhashemi

Volume 14, Issue 55 , November 2025, Pages 73-84

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2025.73892.6207

Abstract

Objective: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a common and chronic disease of the central nervous system that leads to the destruction of neuron myelin, causing disturbances in movement, speech, memory, and other bodily functions. The exact cause of this disease is still unknown, but genetic and environmental ... Read More Objective: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a common and chronic disease of the central nervous system that leads to the destruction of neuron myelin, causing disturbances in movement, speech, memory, and other bodily functions. The exact cause of this disease is still unknown, but genetic and environmental factors play a role in its development. MS is three times more common in women than men and typically occurs between the ages of 20 and 50. The progression of the disease is unpredictable, and it can either progress rapidly or in periodic episodes. Patients with MS face anxiety and uncertainty about their future. A negative orientation towards problems, especially in the face of stress caused by the disease, leads to a reduced ability to solve problems and increased worry among patients. This study examines psychological tools, particularly the Negative Problem Orientation questionnaire, in MS patients, with the aim of validating the Persian version of this questionnaire. Method: This study was a descriptive correlational research conducted on 350 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) who visited various centers in Tehran in 2022. The patients were categorized based on the duration of their illness (ranging from less than 5 years to over 20 years). The tools used included the Ambiguity Tolerance Scale and the Cognitive Avoidance Questionnaire, which were translated into Persian using the back-translation method. Data analysis was performed through confirmatory factor analysis using various model fit indices. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of the Persian version of the Negative Problem Orientation Questionnaire in MS patients. Results: The results of the confirmatory factor analysis empirically supported the unidimensional structure of the Persian version of the Negative Problem Orientation Questionnaire in multiple sclerosis patients. Additionally, a significant positive correlation between negative problem orientation, cognitive avoidance, and ambiguity tolerance supported the construct validity of the questionnaire. The internal consistency of the questionnaire, measured by Cronbach's alpha, was found to be 0.945. This study analyzed the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Negative Problem Orientation Questionnaire in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The results confirmed the unidimensional structure of the questionnaire, supporting its construct validity. Significant positive correlations between negative problem orientation, ambiguity intolerance, and cognitive avoidance further supported the tool's validity. Additionally, the internal consistency coefficient (Cronbach’s alpha) confirmed the tool’s reliability. Conclusion: The findings highlighted that MS patients' negative problem orientation is linked to higher levels of ambiguity intolerance and cognitive avoidance, which aligns with previous studies. Limitations included the lack of additional psychometric tests like convergent and divergent validity and the absence of gender-based analysis in the factor structure. Despite these, the study provided strong evidence for the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the questionnaire for assessing negative problem orientation in MS patients.

Developing and Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Family-Oriented Psychological Interventions Program based on Spiritual Happiness on Managing Anxiety and Reducing Blood Sugar in Adults with Diabetes

mohsen fekri shiran; Gholamali Afrooz; Reza Pourhossein; Seifollah Aghajani; Ahmad Alipoor

Volume 14, Issue 55 , November 2025, Pages 85-98

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2025.74428.6238

Abstract

Objective: The present study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a family-centered psychological intervention program based on spiritual happiness for managing anxiety and reducing blood sugar levels in adults with diabetes. Nowadays, the number of individuals suffering from chronic disorders ... Read More Objective: The present study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a family-centered psychological intervention program based on spiritual happiness for managing anxiety and reducing blood sugar levels in adults with diabetes. Nowadays, the number of individuals suffering from chronic disorders is on the rise, with the World Health Organization reporting that chronic disorders account for nearly 71% of annual deaths. Diabetes is a condition that affects the emotional-cognitive health spectrum of those affected. Over the past twenty years, the prevalence of diabetes has increased, reaching 285 million people in 2010, and this number is expected to rise to over 438 million by 2030. It is believed that individuals with diabetes have deficiencies in their physiological health status, leading to increased psychological stress and tension. Psychological stress is a condition that, if exacerbated, can lead to anxiety. Given the importance of relationships and the role of the affected individual and their family on each other in the course of physical and psychological disorders and the reduction of spiritual happiness, the focus has been on providing family-centered interventions for the affected individual. The family is the only natural, innate, unique and eternal human institution that plays the greatest role in the health and prosperity of human existence. Individuals and families with the disorder experience many difficulties in adapting to the diabetes treatment program. At the individual level, the goal of these treatments is to create positive psychological states. At the family level, the main goal is to increase the level of tolerance and knowledge of how to face and respond rationally and based on emotional relationships between spouses. Method: In this study, the family-oriented psychological intervention program based on spiritual happiness was developed based on previous research on family-oriented psychological interventions. The research method was quasi-experimental with a pre-test and post-test design with a control group. The statistical population consisted of all individuals with type 2 diabetes who visited the Diabetes Home in Ardabil city in 2024, from which 40 individuals were selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two groups of 20 for the experimental and control groups. Data were collected using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test. The experimental group received eight 75-minute sessions of group family-centered psychological interventions based on spiritual well-being, once a week. Data analysis was conducted using Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) and Univariate Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) with the statistical software SPSS22. Results: The findings indicated that the family-oriented psychological intervention program based on spiritual well-being had a significant impact on reducing anxiety (state-trait anxiety) (p<0.01) and blood sugar levels (p<0.01) in adults with diabetes. Conclusion: These results showed that family-oriented psychological therapy, if implemented based on spiritual vitality, can have a healing effect on reducing anxiety, stress, and physiological symptoms of people with diabetes. In this regard, counselors and therapists can use the findings of the present study in clinical and therapeutic interventions.

The Effect of Play Therapy Package Based on Temporal Self-regulation Theory on Body Mass Index of Obese Children

Volume 13, Issue 52 , March 2025, , Pages 139-154

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2025.68972.5883

Abstract

Objective: Weight loss and its maintenance were one of the most important goals of therapists in the field of treating chronic obesity in children due to the inadequacies of current treatments. Thus, the researchers of this study decided to test the effect of their play therapy package based on Hall ... Read More Objective: Weight loss and its maintenance were one of the most important goals of therapists in the field of treating chronic obesity in children due to the inadequacies of current treatments. Thus, the researchers of this study decided to test the effect of their play therapy package based on Hall and Fong's temporal self-regulation theory in this regard. Method: By implementing a semi-experimental research design with pre-test, post-test and follow-up at 2-month intervals on a convenience sample from the population of the Iranian Health Centers-Isfahan City, including 45 parent-obese child pairs randomly assigned to two experimental and control groups, at the same time as conducting family-based behavioral intervention on both groups, members of the experimental group also received play therapy package training. Results: By analyzing the data of children's body mass index (measured by dividing the weight measured in kilograms on a scale by the square of the height measured in meters with a stadiometer) in three sections in the form of pre-test, post-test and follow-up by one-way covariance method, significant difference between the experimental group (combined play therapy method with family-based behavioral intervention method) and the control group (only family-based behavioral intervention method) in both post-test stages (F(42,1)=2188.34, P<0.001, ŋ2=0.98) and follow-up (F(42,1)=1036.61, P<0.001, ŋ2=0.96) was observed which according to the observed strong size effect indicates the effectiveness of the combined method was much better than using the family-based behavioral intervention method alone on weight loss and maintenance. Conclusion: The interpretation of the results indicates the effectiveness of adding the training package designed based on Hall and Fong's temporal self-regulation theory to strengthen the three executive functions of working memory,response inhibition, and cognitive flexibility to the usual family-based behavioral intervention as the best method available in the field of reducing and maintaining weight of children. In such a way that this combined method according to restrictions set in the field of using medical treatments (including drug therapy and surgery) for children under 12 years of age, could be considered as a step in the field of designing complementary methods, which by addressing other causes of chronic obesity including the neurological causes and the psychological structures attributed to it, including the executive functions, has been able to be effective with minimal side effects on the process of treating chronic obesity. The primary step that taking other steps in the direction of improvement and expansion of the designed play therapy package was subject to its retesting and application in other societies, and in comparison, with other methods by interested researchers.

The Effectiveness of Hope Therapy on Cognitive-Behavioral Avoidance and Self-Care Activities in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Volume 13, Issue 50 , September 2024, , Pages 7-22

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2024.66826.5733

Abstract

Objective: one of the most common chronic diseases afflicting a wide range of human population is diabetes. In addition to the body, it also affects psychological characteristics, as well as personal and social functioning of the person. Since type II diabetes has many physical and psychological ... Read More Objective: one of the most common chronic diseases afflicting a wide range of human population is diabetes. In addition to the body, it also affects psychological characteristics, as well as personal and social functioning of the person. Since type II diabetes has many physical and psychological complications, and meanwhile the prevalence of this disease is growing based on predictions, thus development of short-term therapeutic interventions that would promote self-care activities in these patients while also helping them use less of avoidant behaviors as they cause possible harms is essential. Accordingly, increasing hope through hope therapy in these patients can underlie positive transformations in the impaired areas of life. As such, the aim of the present research is to investigate the effectiveness of hope therapy on cognitive behavioral avoidance and self-care behavior among patients with type II diabetes. Method: this quasi-experimental research was performed based on pretest posttest design with control group. The statistical population consisted of all married women and men suffering from type II diabetes in Ahwaz city, who were a member of diabetes Association of this city in 2021. Then, 40 subjects from the applicant individuals and willing to participate in the research with lower scores compared to the mean value of diabetes self-care questionnaires (Tubert et al., 2000) and cognitive behavioral avoidance (Attenberg and Dabson, 2004) were chosen purposefully. After matching the subjects based on demographic characteristics such as age, gender, and history of disease, they were randomly assigned into two groups of 20: treatment group with hope therapy method (n=20) and control group (n=20). Results: the findings indicated that there was a difference between the hope therapy treatment group and control group regarding cognitive behavioral avoidance (F=75.680, p<0.001). Furthermore, for the variable of self-care activities, there was a significant difference between the hope therapy group and control group regarding self-care activities (F=40.240 and p<0.001). Thus, hope therapy had a significant impact on cognitive behavioral avoidance and self-care activities among type II diabetes patients (p<0.05). Conclusion: based on the findings of the present research, a significant difference was found between the treatment group and control in the variables of cognitive behavioral avoidance and self-care activities. In other words, hope therapy has been effective on reducing the extent of cognitive behavioral avoidance of type II diabetes patients in Ahwaz city, and hope therapy has been influential on enhancing self-care activities of these patients in Ahwaz city. Thus, based on these findings, hope therapy can be an effective method for reducing cognitive behavioral avoidance and enhancing self-care activities among patients with type II diabetes. It is suggested that this therapeutic method be used as a complement to pharmacotherapy in governmental and private centers who deal with treating type II diabetes patients.

The Mediating Role of Personality Traits in The Relationship Between the Acceptance Rate of Corona Vaccine and Anxiety, Depression and Stress

Volume 13, Issue 50 , September 2024, , Pages 131-148

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2024.68514.5853

Abstract

Objective: The Covid-19 virus changes over time and is still present in the world. Therefore, the rate of acceptance of the vaccine and the factors affecting it should be investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the mediating role of personality traits in the relationship between the acceptance ... Read More Objective: The Covid-19 virus changes over time and is still present in the world. Therefore, the rate of acceptance of the vaccine and the factors affecting it should be investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the mediating role of personality traits in the relationship between the acceptance rate of corona vaccine and anxiety, depression and stress during the covid-19 pandemic. Method: The current research was descriptive-correlation and structural equation modeling. The statistical population included all adults aged 18 to 60 in Tehran, of which 388 (81 men and 257 women) were selected by the simple random method. To collect data, Hexaco short questionnaire, depression, anxiety and stress questionnaire and the knowledge, attitude, application and concerns questionnaire of the Covid-19 vaccine were used. Then the data were analyzed with SPSS (version 24) and AMOSE (version 24) software. Results: The findings showed that anxiety, depression, and stress have an inverse and significant effect on vaccine resistance or acceptance (β=0.15 and P=0.013). This finding was different from the results of some other researches. It was expected that the acceptance rate of the vaccine would increase with the increase of fear, anxiety and stress. However, in our study it decreased. On the other hand, the results of this research showed that anxiety, depression and stress have a positive and significant effect on personality traits (β=0.41 and P<0.001). Also, the resistance or acceptance of the Covid-19 vaccine was related to anxiety, depression, and stress, and this relationship was significant and inverse and consistent with the results of other studies. Another finding of this research indicated the existence of a relationship between personality traits and vaccine resistance or acceptance (β=0.13 and P=0.021), the results of which were not consistent with some other studies. Conclusion: Generally, the results indicate that the variable of personality traits can play a mediating role (P=0.038) in relation to anxiety, depression, stress resistance or vaccine acceptance. In fact, some personality traits such as extroversion, agreeableness, openness to experience and conscientiousness had less anxiety and stress. Therefore, they managed themselves better during the Covid-19 crisis. On the other hand, people who had higher anxiety and stress were more biased towards information in crisis situations and resisted accepting the Covid-19 vaccine. However, resistance to accepting the Covid-19 vaccine was different in different people. In fact, according to this research, people who had higher stress, anxiety and depression usually had to resist accepting the Covid-19 vaccine. But if they were part of agreeable and negative excitable personality traits, they would show willingness to receive the Covid-19 vaccine. On the other hand, extroverts, who were expected to be willing to accept the Covid-19 vaccine, resisted accepting it.

The Effectiveness of Positive Psychotherapy Intervention on Migraine Headaches and Anger Rumination in Female Students with Migraine

Volume 13, Issue 52 , March 2025, , Pages 7-22

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2024.72184.6104

Abstract

Objective: Headache is a common neurological problem in children and adolescents that can lead to a decrease in the quality of life. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effectiveness of positive psychotherapy intervention on migraine headaches and anger rumination in female ... Read More Objective: Headache is a common neurological problem in children and adolescents that can lead to a decrease in the quality of life. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effectiveness of positive psychotherapy intervention on migraine headaches and anger rumination in female students with migraine. Method: The research method was a pre-test-post-test experiment with a control group. The statistical population of the research included all female students with migraine in the second year of secondary school in Ardabil city in the academic year of 2023-2024, from among them, according to the criteria for entering the research and using the purposeful sampling method, 30 students with migraine were randomly selected in the experimental group (15 people) and the control group (15 people) were replaced. The experimental group received 8 90-minute sessions of positive psychotherapy (Seligman, 2002) and the control group, which was on the waiting list, received no training. Najarian's Migraine Symptom Severity Questionnaire (2006) and Sokodolski et al.'s Anger Rumination Scale (2001) was used to collect data. Data was analyzed using multivariate covariance analysis in SPSS26 software. Results: Considering that the assumptions of normality, homogeneity of error variances, homogeneity of the regression slope between covariance variables with independent variable and equal to the variance covariance matrices were maintained: multivariate covariance analysis was used to compare the mean scores of migraine headaches and anger rumination variables in the post-test. became The results of multivariate covariance analysis showed that there was a statistically significant difference between the mean post-test scores of the two experimental and control groups after controlling for the pre-test effects in the variables of migraine headaches (P<0.001; F=73.04, ηp2=0.73) and anger rumination (P<0.001; F=20/66, ηp2=0.44) exists. Therefore, positive psychotherapy has reduced migraine headaches and rumination of anger in female students with migraines, which indicates the positive effect of this intervention. Conclusion: It can be concluded that positive psychotherapy intervention is effective in improving migraine headaches and rumination of anger in female students with migraine, and therefore, according to the research findings, positive psychotherapy can be used to reduce the problems of people with migraine. Positive psychotherapy can be done by using ways such as increasing positive experiences, teaching awareness of positive experiences, creating positive experiences through mental visualization, teaching ways to reduce negative emotions, paying conscious attention to current emotions, behaviors, attitudes, feelings and paying full attention to positive emotions and Self-negativity and accepting it without judgment lead to improvement of migraine headaches and anger rumination in students with migraine

The Role of Psychological Dimensions of Sexual Problems and Sexual Satisfaction in Predicting the Self-Efficacy of Quitting Addiction among Addicts Referring to Addiction Treatment Camps

Volume 13, Issue 51 , December 2024, , Pages 37-52

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2024.68431.5846

Abstract

Objective: Substance use disorders are characterized by a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating that the individual continues using the substance despite significant substance-related problems. Given the high likelihood of relapse, addiction is considered a chronic ... Read More Objective: Substance use disorders are characterized by a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating that the individual continues using the substance despite significant substance-related problems. Given the high likelihood of relapse, addiction is considered a chronic relapsing disorder, and relapse among individuals in recovery is a significant concern. One factor that can play a significant role in preventing relapse and enhancing coping abilities is quit addiction self-efficacy. Self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to abstain from substance use and improve their quality of life. Individuals with high self-efficacy are more likely to cope with life challenges and less likely to relapse. Among the factors influencing addiction recovery self-efficacy, sexual satisfaction and sexual problems are noteworthy. Sexual dissatisfaction among individuals with substance use disorders can lead to marital problems and decreased sexual desire. Research has shown that substance use negatively impacts sexual functioning, and sexual problems are a significant reason for relapse. These problems can further reduce quit addiction self-efficacy and non-adherence to treatment in married individuals with substance use disorders. Therefore, sexual satisfaction and sexual problems may play a crucial role in predicting quit addiction self-efficacy among married individuals with substance use disorders. Given the limited research. in this area, the present study aims to investigate the role of psychological sexual problems and sexual satisfaction in predicting quit addiction self-efficacy among married men with substance use disorders in Markazi Province. Method: The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the role of psychosexual problems and sexual satisfaction in predicting quit addiction self-efficacy in Central Province. The statistical population of the study included all opiate addicted men who referred to Markazi province addiction treatment camps, and 377 married addicts were selected using convenience sampling using the Cochran sample size estimation formula. In order to measure the research variables, Snell,Fisher and Walters’ Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire (1993), Bramson’s quit addiction self-efficacy questionnaire (1999) and Larson (1998) sexual satisfaction questionnaires were used. Pearson's correlation coefficient and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Results: The results showed that there is a positive relationship between sexual satisfaction, internal sexual control and quit addiction self-efficacy, and there is a significant negative relationship between sexual anxiety, Sexual Self-Monitoring, sexual depression and sexual assertiveness and quit addiction self-efficacy in addicts. The results of regression analysis showed that 24% of the variance of quit addiction self-efficacy in addicts can be predicted based on internal sexual control, sexual satisfaction, sexual depression positively and sexual anxiety, sexual assertiveness and sexual monitoring negatively. Marital sexual satisfaction, sexual esteem, sexual preoccupation, sexual consciousness, sexual motivation, external sexual control and fear of sexual relationships could not. Conclusion: This study aimed to investigate the role of psychological dimensions of sexual problems and sexual satisfaction in predicting addiction recovery self-efficacy. Results indicated that internal sexual control, sexual satisfaction, and sexual depression positively predicted quit addiction self-efficacy, while sexual anxiety, sexual assertiveness, and sexual self-monitoring negatively predicted it. In this research, increased sexual satisfaction and internal sexual control led to higher self-efficacy for quitting addiction, whereas sexual anxiety and sexual self-monitoring resulted in lower self-efficacy. Additionally, variables such as marital sexual satisfaction, sexual esteem, sexual preoccupation, and fear of sexual intimacy were unable to predict quit addiction self-efficacy. This research emphasizes the importance of sex education and therapeutic interventions for sexual problems in addiction treatment centers and suggests conducting similar studies in other provinces with larger samples. Limitations of the study include its cross-sectional design, the use of self-report questionnaires, cultural challenges in reporting sexual issues, and the limited sample to married men attending addiction treatment centers in Markazi Province.

Design and Validation of Tension Headache Questionnaire in the Iranian Population

Nader Hajloo; Hasan Abdollahzadeh; Ali Salmani; Aysan Sharei; Negar Farhoudi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 11 March 2026

https://doi.org/10.30473/hpj.2025.75562.6307

Abstract

Objective: Tension headache is known as the second most common chronic disease in the world. Tension headaches pose a significantly greater social burden than migraines, especially in chronic cases, and can have significant negative consequences on various aspects of an individual's well-being, including ... Read More Objective: Tension headache is known as the second most common chronic disease in the world. Tension headaches pose a significantly greater social burden than migraines, especially in chronic cases, and can have significant negative consequences on various aspects of an individual's well-being, including physical, psychological, and social interactions. This type of headache has attracted the attention of many researchers and health professionals due to its prevalence and significant impact on quality of life. Therefore, designing a specific questionnaire can be an important step towards developing related research. The present study aimed to design and validate a tension headache questionnaire in the Iranian population. Method: The present study is a mixed qualitative-quantitative study. The qualitative part of the research was conducted in an inductive manner to extract the items used in developing the questionnaire. In the quantitative part, a descriptive method was used in the form of psychometric studies to examine the validity and reliability of the developed tool. In the qualitative part, the statistical population was all articles extracted from the scientific databases SID, Magiran, and Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Since direct, and Google scholar between 2000 and 2024. The statistical population of the research in the quantitative part consisted of all people with tension headaches based on the diagnostic criteria of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3) in 2025. The sample of the present study was 240 individuals from four cities selected by purposive sampling method and responded to the Tension Headache Questionnaire (2025), Questionnaire for Measuring Symptoms of Migraine Headache of Najarian (1997) and Psychological Well-Being Scale of Ryff (1989). Internal consistency coefficient, concurrent validity, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis were used to analyze the data. The data were analyzed using SPSS.26 and LISREL.10.20 software. Results: The results of the internal consistency coefficient showed that this questionnaire and its subscales have adequate reliability (α>0.70). The results of the correlation coefficient showed that the positive relationship between the tension headaches variable and the severity of migraine symptoms (r=0.750, P<0.001) indicates appropriate convergent validity and the negative correlation coefficient between the psychological well-being variable (r=-0.155, P<0.05) indicates appropriate divergent validity. The fit indices of the confirmatory factor analysis model also confirmed the final model of this questionnaire with eight components of factors related to repetition, pain, time, environment, sensitivity, distress tolerance, pressure/tension, and mood (P<0.001). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the tension headache questionnaire has acceptable validity and reliability in the Iranian society and is well-adapted to the cultural and indigenous characteristics of Iranian patients, which allows for a proper understanding of its items. Using this tool in diagnosing or assessing the severity of tension headaches can have a significant impact and is a suitable self-assessment scale for clinical and research situations.