The effectiveness of dynamic therapy on psychological hardiness and shame in people with schizoid personality.

Abstract

Abstract
Introduction: Schizoid personality disorder is associated with features such as social withdrawal, emotional restriction, and internalized shame, which can reduce the level of psychological hardiness in these individuals. Dynamic therapy, with an emphasis on processing unconscious conflicts and repressed emotions, can be effective in reducing shame and promoting psychological hardiness.
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of short-term intensive dynamic psychotherapy on psychological hardiness and shame in individuals with schizoid personality disorder.
Method: This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental method with a pre-test, post-test, and two-month follow-up design with a control group. The statistical population included individuals who met the criteria for schizoid personality disorder based on a clinical interview. 30 participants were randomly assigned to two experimental and control groups (15 people in each group). The research instruments included the Kubasa Psychological Hardiness Scale and the Cook Internalized Shame Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance in SPSS version 25.
Results: The findings showed that short-term intensive dynamic psychotherapy significantly reduced shame and increased psychological toughness in the experimental group compared to the control group (P<0.01). These changes were maintained at the follow-up stage.
Conclusion: The results indicate the effectiveness of dynamic psychotherapy in reducing shame and enhancing psychological toughness in individuals with schizoid personality disorder. Therefore, this approach can be used to improve the psychological adjustment of these individuals.