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The role of cognitive behavioral therapy in improving resilience and reducing depressive symptoms in elderly people with empty nest syndrome
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Masoumeh Ghanbari   , Abbas Abolghasemi * , Azra Ghaffari , Azar Kiamarsi |
| Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran. |
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Abstract: (315 Views) |
Introduction: Aging and social changes create numerous psychological challenges for the elderly. Empty nest syndrome is associated with feelings of loneliness and frustration and can negatively affect the resilience of these individuals and lead to depression. This study examines the role of cognitive behavioral therapy in improving resilience and reducing depressive symptoms in elderly people with this syndrome.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted with a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design and a control group. The statistical population included depressed elderly people with empty nest syndrome in welfare centers in Ardabil in 2024. 28 people from this population were divided into two experimental and control groups (14 people in each group). The experimental group received 10 sessions of 90-minute cognitive behavioral therapy, while the control group did not receive any intervention. Data were collected using depression, empty nest syndrome, and psychological capital questionnaires and analyzed using mixed analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc test.
Results: In the experimental group, the mean and standard deviation of resilience scores at pre-test, post-test, and follow-up were 21.92±4.68, 25.00±4.96, and 25.85±5.18, respectively. Depression scores were 28.35±7.53, 18.42±9.04, and 17.00±9.24. Statistical analyses indicated significant changes (P<0.001), with the time factor accounting for 36% and 74% of the variance in resilience and depression scores, respectively. A significant interaction between group and time explained 39% and 76% of the variance.
Conclusion: Cognitive behavioral therapy can help improve the quality of life of elderly people with empty nest syndrome. This intervention strengthens the resilience of this age group by reducing symptoms of depression and increasing feelings of happiness. The use of this treatment in health and social programs is important and helps improve the mental health of the elderly.
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| Keywords: Aged, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Depression, Empty Nest Syndrome, Resilience |
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Type of Study: Original research |
Subject:
Eldely mental and psychological issues
Received: 2025/07/16 | Accepted: 2025/10/10 | Published: 2025/10/10
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