The Effectiveness of Schema Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on Cognitive Flexibility and Quality of Life in Conflicting Couples

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of schema therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on cognitive flexibility and quality of life in conflicting couples.

Methodology: This quasi-experimental study employed a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design with a control group. The sample consisted of 24 conflicting couples who were randomly divided into three groups: schema therapy group (8 couples), ACT group (8 couples), and control group (8 couples). Both experimental groups received seven 120-minute sessions of intervention. The research tools included the Cognitive Flexibility Inventory and Quality of Life Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA.

Findings: The results showed that both experimental groups experienced significant improvements in cognitive flexibility and quality of life compared to the control group. Furthermore, the follow-up results indicated that these improvements in the schema therapy and ACT groups were sustained two months after the interventions. However, no significant difference was found between the effectiveness of the two therapeutic approaches.

Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, both schema therapy and ACT can effectively increase cognitive flexibility and improve the quality of life in conflicting couples. These results highlight the effectiveness of these approaches in reducing marital conflicts and enhancing the psychological well-being of couples.