EFCT vs. BCT for Depression and Anxiety in Married Couples

Summary

This study compares the effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and Behavioral Couples Therapy (BCT) in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms in married couples. A total of 150 married couples aged 18-65 will be screened, and 60 couples with high depression and anxiety levels will be selected. These couples will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: EFCT, BCT, or a control group. Therapy sessions will be conducted weekly for 12 weeks, with assessments before therapy, after the 6th and 12th sessions, and at a 3-month follow-up. The study aims to determine which therapy is more effective in improving mental health outcomes in couples.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

* Married couples aged between 18 and 65 years
* Married for at least one year
* No current psychiatric diagnosis or history of psychiatric treatment
* Not receiving any form of psychological therapy at the time of recruitment
* Ability to provide informed consent
* Willingness to participate in all therapy sessions and assessments

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current or past psychiatric diagnosis (excluding mild transient conditions)
* Ongoing psychological therapy or psychiatric treatment
* Severe mental health disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder), Substance abuse or dependency
* Severe medical conditions that may interfere with participation
* Refusal to participate in follow-up assessments

Conditions3

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