Comparison of the Effectiveness of Psychodrama and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Hopelessness, Psychological Symptoms, and Quality of Life in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Keywords:
Psychodrama, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Hopelessness, Psychological Symptoms, Quality of Life, Multiple SclerosisAbstract
Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of psychodrama and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on hopelessness, psychological symptoms, and quality of life in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Methods and Materials: A quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and a control group was used. The statistical population included MS patients supported by the MS Patients Association in 2024. Thirty participants were selected via convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental groups (ACT and psychodrama) and one control group, each with 10 members. Both experimental groups underwent 8 structured intervention sessions. Data collection tools included the Beck Hopelessness Scale, the SCL-25 psychological symptoms questionnaire, and the WHO Quality of Life Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA.
Findings: Results revealed that both interventions significantly reduced hopelessness (F=18.21 for psychodrama and F=18.02 for ACT), psychological symptoms (F=26.91 and F=26.25), and improved quality of life (F=30.74 and F=32.62) compared to the control group (p<.001). However, no significant differences were observed between the effectiveness levels of the two interventions (p>.05).
Conclusion: The findings suggest that both psychodrama and ACT are effective therapeutic approaches for improving mental health and quality of life among patients with MS, with no significant difference in their relative effectiveness.
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