The effectiveness of Emotion-based therapy for irrational beliefs and marital silence in conflicting couples

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Counseling Department, Farhangian University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education, Arak Branch, Islamic Azad University, Arak, Iran

3 Counseling Department, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Arak Branch, Islamic Azad University, Arak, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objectives:Marital conflicts are often accompanied by emotional dysregulation, irrational beliefs, and ineffective communication patterns that may manifest as emotional withdrawal and marital silence. Emotion Focused Therapy(EFT),as an attachment based and experiential approach, aims to improve emotional processing, regulation, and interpersonal responsiveness within couples.The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of EFT on irrational beliefs and marital silence among conflicted couples.Methods:This quasi experimental study employed a pretest–posttest design.The statistical population included couples referring to the Pendar Novandish Counseling Center in Arak in 2024. A total of 30 couples were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received nine 90 minuteEFT sessions,while the control group received no intervention.Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance. Findings:The findings showed that emotion-focused therapy significantly reduced irrational beliefs and marital silence in the experimental group(P<0.05).Based on this,it can be concluded that emotion-focused interventions are effective in improving the quality of marital relationshipsand reducing couples' conflicts.Conclusion:EFT is an effective intervention for reducing irrational beliefs and marital silence among couples experiencing conflict.By enhancing emotional awareness,expression, and regulation, this therapeutic approach can improve relational functioning and reduce maladaptive interaction patterns, contributing to better marital quality and conflict management.

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History

  • Receive Date: 15 February 2026
  • Revise Date: 19 April 2026
  • Accept Date: 13 May 2026

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