Davoud Pourmarzi, Shahnaz Rimaz, Effat Sadat Merghati Khoii,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (1-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Educational programs for couples' mental health promotion in marital life are a necessity. The first step in planning an educational program understands the needs of the target group. This paper reports the mental health educational needs in youth planning to marry.
Materials and Methods: In a descriptive-analytical cross sectional study, 450 individuals taking part in pre-marriage education courses in Tehran were selected by randomized stratified sampling. The data was collected using a questionnaire that measured the educational needs in the area of mental health by the 5-point Likert-type scale. Data analysis was done using the SPSS-15 software, the statistical tests being the independent T-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the chi-square test.
Results: On the whole, the subjects' felt need for mental health education was more than moderate (3 on the Likert scale) women expressed a higher need than men (p=0.001). The main concern of the participants - both men and women - was How to keep romance alive in married life. The extent of need expressed for mental education was not statistically different in different socio-demographic groups of women, while worker men expressed a higher need than self-employed men (P=0.018).
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, young people planning to marry have a felt need for education in the area of mental health. It is recommended to design and implement educational programs to promote their knowledge in this area with due consideration of priorities stated by them.
Roghayeh Abedini, Alireza Choobineh, Jafar Hassanzadeh,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (1-2013)
Abstract
Background and aims: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a serious problem among the nursing staff. Manual patient-handling tasks, such as lifting, transferring, and repositioning patients, are the major causes of WMSDs among nursing staff. The objective of the present study was risk assessment of musculoskeletal disorders during patient transfers by the movement-and-assistance-of-hospital patient (MAPO) technique among hospital nursing staff of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS), Shiraz, Iran.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 400 randomly selected nurses from 75 wards in 11 hospitals in Shiraz. Data were collected using demographic and Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorders Questionnaires and the MAPO index checklist. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 16.
Results: The means of age and job tenure of the subjects were 30.76±6.44 and 6.92±5.75 years, respectively. The 12-month prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was 88.2%. The results of assessment by the MAPO index revealed that more than 83% of the subjects were at risk, 20.5% of them exposed to high risk. Further analysis of the data indicated that the musculoskeletal disorders occurrence was significantly associated with the MAPO index score (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders were found to be associated with the MAPO index. Therefore, MAPO is an appropriate tool for musculoskeletal disorders risk identification and assessment due to patient handling in the nursing personnel. In any attempt to improve the working conditions, patient transfer aids, environmental factors, and proper training should be taken into consideration.
Hamed Rezakhani Moghaddam, Davoud Shojaeizadeh, Mohammad Hasan Taghdisi, Yousef Hamidzadeh Arbabi, Mohammad Taghi Savadpour,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (1-2013)
Abstract
Background and aim: Delivery or parturition is the peak of a woman’s pregnancy period, accompanied with birth of one or more babies. Unfortunately, Cesarean section, despite its probable undesirable health and economic consequences, has become more and more common. Considering that the goal of health education is behavior change in people, the objective of this study was to investigate the role of health volunteers in educating mothers consulting the health care centers in Ardabil in the area of choice of delivery method based on the Behavioral Intention Model (BIM).
Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 140 primaparous mothers in Ardabil city in the seventh month of pregnancy were selected by systematic random sampling and divided into a case and a control group, and a written pretest was given to both groups. Education based on the BIM was imparted to the case group. One month after delivery, both groups were post-tested. The data on awareness, attitude, results evaluation and practice were analyzed using the Wilcoxon, Mann Whitney-U and Chi-square tests.
Results: The findings revealed statistical differences between the case and control groups after intervention with regard to awareness, evaluation of results and attitude (p<0.001). However, behavioral intention did not change (p=0.106).
Conclusion: Although health volunteers' participation results in an increase in knowledge and promotes attitude and evaluation of behavioral results in pregnant women, it does not change their behavioral intention. It is suggested to conduct similar studies for comparative purposes involving other trainers, such as physicians and nurses in other cities, using other educational models and methods.
Mansour Halimi, Mehdi Delavari, Ashraf Takhtardeshir,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (1-2013)
Abstract
Background and aim: Malaria as a mosquito-borne disease is largely dependent on climatic conditions. Temperature, rainfall and relative humidity are considered as climatic factors affecting the geographical distribution of this disease. These climatic factors have definite roles not only in the growth and proliferation of the mosquito Anopheles but also in the parasite Plasmodium activity. The purpose of this study was to find in which regions of Iran climatic conditions favour spread of malaria.
Material and Methods: Data on 3 climatic factors, including the mean monthly temperature, rainfall and mixed ratio of humidity, obtained from 31 synoptic meteorological stations during the 30-year period 1975-2005 were used. By running the informative filters through map algebra tools in the Geographical Information System (GIS), the synoptic meteorological stations were classified into 4 groups in terms of climatic conditions favouring activity and proliferation of the mosquito Anopheles and the parasite Plasmodium. Then the regions were interpolated in terms of climate risk of malaria incidence using the tension Spiline interpolation method.
Results: The maps of climatic potential malaria risk indicated that the southern provinces including Hormozgan, Bushehr and Khuzestan, southern parts of Sistan-Balouchistan province, such as Chabahar and Nikshahr, as well as Northern provinces of the country, including Mazandaran and Gilan, have the highest climatic potential for risk of malaria spread. On the other hand, provinces in the North Western region, including West and East Azarbaijan, Ardebil, Kurdistan and Zanjan, have the lowest climatic potential risk of malaria spread. Further analysis of the data showed that a large segment of the population is living in regions with medium- to high-risk zones.
Conclusion: The findings of this study can be used when designing malaria control programs to identify different regions in terms of climate-based malaria risk. The presented risk map of malaria in this study is completely based on climatic factors. The disconformity between these presented climate-based maps and the observed high-risk map is due to such factors as socioeconomic and lifestyle changes, as well as border problems (foreign subjects entering the country).
Shahnaz Rimaz, Shokrolah Mohseni, Effat Sadat Merghati Khoei, Maryam Dastoorpour, Fatemeh Akbari,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (1-2013)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Relapse after treatment is a common problem among drug addicts in addiction control and prevention programs. About 80% of the addicts relapse into drug abuse within 6 months after treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine factors associated with drug abuse relapse in patients consulting two selected addiction treatment centers in Tehran.
Material and Methods: In this case-control study, 160 relapsed patients were compared with 160 abstentious patients. A researcher-developed questionnaire was used to collect data. Chi-square test, odds ratio (OR) and logistic regression were performed for data analysis.
Results: The findings showed that factors increasing rate of relapse were smoking after relapse (OR=7.14, CI=3.855-13.244), substance-related cues (OR=6.76, CI= 3.915-11.678), interaction with addict peers (OR=6.38, CI=3.921-10398), malaise (OR=3.93, CI=2.446-6.305), and family conflict (OR=2.04, CI=1.227-3.385). Opium- and dross-addicts were found to be less likely to have a relapse than crack- or pot- users (OR= 0.208, CI-0.128- 0.336).
Conclusion: The findings of this study reveal that relapse into drug abuse is significantly associated with personal, social, psychological and medical variables. It is recommended to
integrate family counseling and therapeutic approaches, constant monitoring, and health care in treatment plans in order to reduce the adverse effects of factors such as family conflicts, peer pressure and drug-related cues in patients' likelihood of relapse.
Shayesteh Hajizadeh, Saharnaz Nedjat, Reza Majdzadeh, Minoo Mohraz, Hamid Reza Setayesh, Mohammad Mehdi Gouya,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (1-2013)
Abstract
Introduction: Development of effective antiretroviral therapies (ART) has reduced mortality and increased life expectancy among individuals with HIV infection. Antiretroviral therapy regiments have improved symptoms and quality of life among these patients, whose sexual and reproductive needs, have, therefore, increased as well. In 2010, 20.8% of HIV-infected Iranians acquired the disease through sexual relations. The objective of this study was to define high-risk sexual behaviors among individuals infected with HIV referred to the Triangular Clinics of Universities of Medical Sciences in Tehran.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional interview-based survey included 400 HIV-positive individuals selected by consequential sampling.
Results: The majority (60%) of the subjects was males, and 44.2% of men and 51.3% of women with HIV were in the age group 34-25 years. On the whole, 15.6% of the women and 49.6% of the men had high-risk sexual behaviors after diagnosis of HIV infection. Further analysis of the data showed that 62.5% of HIV-positive individuals were not aware of the risks of unsafe sexual relationship (using no condom) for HIV-positive transmission.. Based on the logistic regression module, it was found that factors strongly associated with high-risk sexual behavior were being male, being single, under high school diploma/graduate degree, alcohol intake and use of hormonal and permanent methods of family planning (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The findings of this study confirm previous reports showing common high-risk sexual behaviour after diagnosis in HIV-positive populations. Providing suitable health services and advice on fertility and sexual health will result in no- or low-risk sexual life for couples.
Fatemeh Heydarpour, Kazem Mohammad, Sousan Heydarpour, Farid Najafi, Kourosh Holakouie Naieni,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (1-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The time needed to achieve a wanted pregnancy is referred to as time to pregnancy (TTP). Due to differences in lifestyles and geographical locations in different countries, factors affecting TTP may be different in various countries. This study was conducted in 2011 to determine factors affecting time to TTP in Kermanshah, Iran.
Materials and methods: In this case-control study 174 women with TTP>12 months (cases) and 587 women with TTP<=12 months (controls) were selected. The tool for collecting data was a questionnaire. The SPSS-16 software was used for data analysis, a p-value <0.05 being considered as statistically significant.
]Results: Multivariate analysis showed that factors decreasing TPP statistically significantly were women's education level (≥high school diploma OR=0.854, CI 95%=0.741-0.984), frequency of intercourse in a week (OR=0.728, CI95%=0.631-0.839), blood group A compared to O (OR=0.639, CI95%=0.405-1.01), and non-exposure to smoking (OR=0.606, CI95%=0.380-0.965). On the other hand, factors increasing TPP were a woman's irregular menstrual cycle (OR=3.701, CI95%=2.127-6.441), lack of physical activity (OR=1.920, CI95%=1.263-2.918) and a body mass index (BMI) higher than 25 (OR=2.221, CI 95%=1.489-3.312).
Conclusion: According to the results of this study, a high BMI and lack of exercise increase, while factors such as frequency of intercourse decrease the length of TTP. Couples seeking medical intervention for pregnancy often disregard factors associated with TTP. It is recommended that care-providers support these couples, promote their awareness, and give them suitable advice.
Hamid Sepehrdust, Elham Rajabi,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (1-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Hospitals as one of the major institutions providing health care services within the health sector utilize a high percentage of the sector's key resources to respond to the needs of consumers. The aim of the present study was to identify factors affecting technical, scale and management efficiency of the Social Security Organization (SSO) hospitals during the period 2007-2009 and find ways to improve the efficiency of inefficient hospitals.
Materials and Methods: A total of 65 SSO hospitals active during the period 2007-2009 were included in the study. Data envelopment analysis was used assuming constant return to scale of production (CRS). To distinguish between management and scale efficiency of hospital units, the study used input-oriented model (BCC) assuming variable return to scale (VRS).
Results: The findings showed that small hospitals with less than, and large hospitals with more than, 100 active beds have 11% and 8.8% surplus inputs, respectively, the surplus inputs being medical and nursing staff, other personnel, as well as active beds for hospital services. In addition, the impact factors of medical staff, nursing staff, other personnel, and active beds were 24%, 9.8%, 11.7% and 16.8% for small hospitals' efficiency and 25.7%, 18%, 21.7% and 30.7% for large hospitals' efficiency, respectively..
Conclusion: Considering the average scale and management scores derived for efficiency measurement, it is recommended that the Social Security Organization hospitals reduce their surplus costs and increase their output products and services to achieve the optimum level of efficiency.
Zohreh Sadat Mirsaeedi, Hassan Eftekhar Ardebili, Keramat Allah Nouri Jalyani,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (3-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The most important single determinant of the quality of life of the elderly is health. Studies have shown that health declines with age. Because of high vulnerablity of the elderly due to many problems, they need particular attention and self-care programs for their health promotion. The objective of this study was to assess the quality of life of elderly clients under coverage of the Southern Tehran Health Center and determine the effects of a self-care program on it.
Materials and Methods: This was a controlled interventional study conducted in 2010-2011. A total of 132 elderly clients (52 in the intervention, and 80 in the control, group) were selected by randomised cluster sampling from 5 Health Care Centers in Southern Tehran. A 3-month educational program was prepared with contents based on books published by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education and implemented. The quality of life was assessed in both groups at the beginning and 2 months after the intervention using a short questionnaire (sf36). Data were collected through a structured interview (demographic characterstics) and analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistical tests.
Results: The mean quality-of-life score of the experimental group increased after education the mean score of physical domain of the quality of life increased from 52.75 in 66.11 and that of the emotional domain from 53.61 to 70.85. The scores of different domains of quality of life of the control subjects did not change significantly.
Conclusion: The findings show that a self-care educational program can have a positive affect on quality of life of the elderly.
Arezou Fallahi, Fazl Allah Ghofranipour, Fazl Allah Ahmadi, Beheshteh Malekafzali, Ebrahim Hajizadeh,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (3-2013)
Abstract
Background and aim: Oral and dental diseases limit an individual&aposs activities at the school, work place and home, leading to a loss of millions of work and school hours all over the world. The period of adolescence is critical as regards shaping of healthy behaviors related to oral and dental diseases. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe school pupils&apos viewpoints on factors influencing development of dental caries.
Materials and Methods: A qualitative study with a content analysis approach was conducted to collect the perspectives of 18 Iranian students in 8 guidance schools selected by purposive sampling. Structured and semi-structured interviews were held to collect data. An informed consent was obtained and the interviews were recorded and transcribed. The data was analyzed through an inductive approach of content analysis. In order to support the validity and rigor of the data, different criteria such as acceptability, confirmability and transferability were utilized.
Results: Data analysis could identify four major factors influencing dental caries development: "family interactions in dental health", "role of school in caring for teeth", "role of dentists in caring for teeth" and "effect of education in caring for teeth". The factors influencing caring for teeth and mouth had a greater significance.
Conclusion: The students&apos experiences, as observed in this study, can help in developing mutual trust between students and dentists, delivering better services in schools by relevant organizations, and designing more effective oral health interventions, with due consideration of vital role of the parents.
N Bahrami, M Simbar, M.a Soleimani,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (3-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Becoming to an adult who is sexually healthy is one of the key developmental activities for adolescents. sexual health is included of sexual development and reproductive health and also the ability to create and maintain good interpersonal relationships, are valued for their body, Respectful engagement with both sexes in correct method and expressed a desire, love and intimacy based on personal and stable social values.
Materials and Methods: In this study, using key words adolescence, sexual behavior, sexual risk behavior and sexual health and peers, related studies from 1370 to 1390 in IranMedex, Irandoc, Medlib, SID and Google scholar were investigated.
Results: Factors and challenges are associated with adolescent sexual health can be categorized into the following 4 themes (12 sub themes): Religious beliefs and spirituality (abstinence) lack of sexual education (false beliefs and knowledge about sexual function adolescents' attitudes toward risky behavior and sexual relations information sources of adolescents skills for "say no") community and youth issues(gender differences relationships with peers monitoring and control by the family communication challenges between teen and parents socioeconomical factors Centers for reproductive health services to adolescents) adolescents sexual relationship outcomes (catching sexually transmitted diseases probability).
Conclusion: In some areas, including relationships between parents with children, gender differences, attitudes and sexual behavior and the influence of peers, Studies conducted in our country is well. But in areas such as spirituality and religious beliefs, self-control, prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS, life skills in adolescents and intervention strategies to promote sexual health of adolescents there are a great gap.
Yousef Mohammadian, Seyed Jamaledin Shahtaheri, Ali Akbar Sabour Yaraghi, Hossein Kakooei, Mohammad Hajaghazadeh,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (3-2013)
Abstract
Background and aim: In this study the cytotoxicity to human epithelial lung cells of single-walled carbon nanotubes, multi-walled carbon nanotubes and chrysotile was compared based on the following cytotoxicity indices: no observable adverse effect concentration (NOAEC), inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50), and Total Lethal Concentration (TLC).
Materials and Methods: Human epithelial lung cells were exposed to different concentrations (1 to 1500 µg/ml) of carbon nanotubes and chrysotile for 6 and 24 hours. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay. NOAEC, IC50, and TLC idices were determined by probit analysis.
Results: The results showed statistically significant correlations (p<0.001) between cytoxicity and exposure concentration in the case of all the three compounds. The NOAEC and IC50 indices were lowest for the multi-walled carbon nanotubes, while the single-walled carbon nanotubes showed the lowest TLC index.
Conclusion: Cytotoxicity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes at low concentrations was higher than that of single-walled carbon nanotubes and chrysotile. This would mean that exposure to this compound occurs at low concentrations. Thus, cytotoxicity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes is a cause for concern. It can be concluded, then, that, like chrysotile fibers, crabon nanotubes are also considerably toxic to human epithelial lung cells.
Ahmad Ali Hanafi Bojd, Hassan Vatandoust, Mahyar Soltani, Zabih Allah Charrahi, Homa Nasseh,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (3-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Arthropod-borne diseases are one of the major causes of human mortality. Since launch of the first meteorological satellites in 1960s, remote sensing has been increasingly implicated in the field of human health research and the data from satellites and their sensors with different spatial and temporal resolutions opened a new field of research in human health for scientists.
Material and Methods: Search engines and national/international scientific databanks were used to search keywords of remote sensing, satellite, tick, mosquito and sand fly and obtained articles were analyzed.
Results: Some ecological indices were used more in remote sensing of arthropod-borne diseases, including NDVI, SST, LST and CCD.
Conclusion: Data of environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity, land use/ land cover help us to detect the habitats of vectors of diseases regard to their ecology. However, the scope of applications, beyond theoretical large potentialities, appears limited both by their technical nature and the related models developed. The main problem for application of remote sensing in health science and epidemiology of diseases, is the costs of satellite images as well as the availability in the studied times to monitor a specific subject like vector or agent of the disease. Although the majority of health studies and diseases monitoring need to application of high spatial resolution images.
Mohammad Saleh Koushki, Ali Akbari Sari, Mohammad Arab, Kambiz Ahmadi Engali,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (3-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The quality of working life is a very important variable in connection with human resources. Therefore, it should be taken into consideration by managers if they aim to improve the capabilities and efficiency of their staff, which will, in turn, lead to improved productivity and economic growth. Productivity is an important factor in the success of hospital nurses too. The objective of this study was to determine the association between the quality of working life and productivity of nurses. Knowledge of this relationship can help plan to improve the nurses' quality of working life and, subsequently, improve their productivity and, ultimately, productivity of a hospital.
Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional correlation study conducted in 2011. The study population was nurses of the Shahid-Beheshti University of Medical Sciences hospitals in Tehran, Iran. Using the randomized stratified multistage sampling method, 380 nurses were selected as the study sample. Data on the nurses' quality of working life and productivity were collected using two questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS-17, the statistical tests being Chi-2, ANOVA, T-test, and the Pearson correlation test.
Results: The findings showed that nurses' quality of work life and productivity were at the middle level, with a mean of 2.47 and 3.07, respectively. A very small number (1.55%) of the nurses reported that their quality of work life was at a high level, while the majority (82.4%) believed their quality of work life to be at a moderate level. The Pearson correlation test showed a significant positive relationship between the quality of work life and productivity of the nurses (r = 0.66, p-value = 0.001).
Conclusion: Only a low proportion of the nurses report their quality of working life and productivity to be at a high level. Therefore, bearing in mind that a statistically significant relationship exists between the quality of working life and productivity, authorities should atempt to promote the nurses' quality of work life in order to increase their productivity.
Sahand Jorfi, Abbas Rezaee, Nemat Allah Jaafarzadeh Haghighi Fard, Ghasem Ali Mohebali,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (3-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Problems related to conventional Fenton oxidation, including neccesity of having a low pH and production of considerable amounts of sludge, have prompted researchers to consider chelating agents to improve the pH operating range and iron nano-oxide particles to reduce excess sludge. The main objective of this study was to remove pyrene from contaminated soils by a modified Fenton oxidation method at neutral pH.
Materials and Methods: Experiments were conducted using various concentrations of H2O2 (0-500 mM), iron nano-oxides (0-60 mM), reaction times (0.5-24 hours) and several chelating agents, namely, sodium pyrophosphate, ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid, sodium citrate, fulvic and humic acids, to eliminate pyrene from soil (concentrations of 100-500 mg/kg).
Results: The efficiency of removal of pyrene at an initial concentration of 100 mg/kg was 99 % at the following reaction conditions: H2O2 and iron nano-oxide concentrations of 300 mM and 30 mM, respectively pH=3 and a reaction time of 6 hours. The initial pyrene concentration of 100 mg/kg decreased to 7 mg/kg at optimum conditions using sodium pyrophosphate as the chelating agent at pH 7.
Conclusion: The modified Fenton oxidation method, using iron nano-oxide at optimum conditions as defined in this research, is an efficient alternative for chemical remediation or pre-treatment of soils contaminated wih pyrene at neutral pH.
Masoud Neghab, Esmail Soleimani, Kambiz Khamoushian,
Volume 10, Issue 4 (3-2013)
Abstract
Background and Aims: n-Hexane is widely used in the production of glues, lacquers, paints, plastics, and rubber products. Consequently, a significant potential for exposure to this toxic solvent exists in industrial settings. This study was undertaken to assess the neurophysiological abnormalities in shoe-makers occupationally exposed to n-hexane and determine whether these abnormalities have any correlation with important occupational parameters.
Materials and Methods: Neurophysiological examinations of upper and lower extremities were made in 27 male-workers, and the results were compared with a sex- and age-matched reference group. In addition, the extent of exposure of individual workers and their urinary concentration of free 2,5-hexanedione were determined. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 16.0. for windows).
Results: The time-weighted average exposure to n-hexane and the mean urinary concentration of free 2,5-hexanedione were both lower than the respective TLV-TWA and Biological Exposure Index (BEI) values proposed by ACGIH. Although neurological examinations and nerve conduction velocities were normal, significant negative correlations were observed between the urinary concentration of free 2,5-hexanedione and the sensory nerve action potential (SAP) amplitudes for median (r=-0.67, p<0.001) and sural (r=-0.52, p<0.008) nerves.
Conclusions: Reduced SAP amplitude for median and sural nerves appears to be the primary neurotoxic effect of 2,5-hexanedione and can be used as an appropriate indicator for screening subclinical peripheral neuropathy in n-hexane-exposed workers.
Iman Zaghian, Seyyedeh Maryam Pourmusavi, Zahra Jannati, Hamed Moslehi,
Volume 22, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Adolescence is a period of rapid biological, cognitive and neurological changes. The aim of this research was to conduct a cultural critique of the educational package of intra-family and extra-family communication for adolescents, which was implemented as part of the mental health services within the health network and based on Iranian-Islamic culture.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative study utilized the theme analysis method developed by Brown and Clark in 2006. The study population comprised all mental health contents within the health network. Targeted sampling was used to investigate the content related to communicating with adolescents. Data analysis involved the use of theme format analysis, theme network, and comparative analysis.
Results: Data analysis resulted in the extraction of 30 primary, 4 secondary and 2 overarching themes. The secondary themes included respect for parents, social norms, moral norms and a lack of cultural norms, while the overarching themes included values and norms.
Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the need to revise and rewrite the content of the family foundation-strengthening program for parents and adolescents.
Serajeddin Mahmoudiani, Roghayeh Khosravi, Jonathan Parker, Nazanin Aghaei,
Volume 22, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Despite the importance of reproductive health and the utilization of contraceptive methods, their significance in public health and well-being is not yet fully understood in developing countries. It is expected that significant changes in Iran's family planning policy, coupled with the emergence of Covid-19, have influenced the contraceptive methods employed in the country.
Materials and Methods: This research was a cross-sectional study including 1200 married women of reproductive age using a quantitative survey method in Shiraz city, Iran in 2019. Sampling was done using a combination of multi-stage and systematic random classification methods. Data collection was done through a researcher-made structured questionnaire and analyzed using the SPSS software, the statistical tests being chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression.
Results: The main predictors of using contraceptive methods included women's age, actual fertility, ideal fertility, education level of the couple, and the employment status of the couple. After the Covid-19 pandemic there was an increase in the likelihood of utilizing traditional contraceptive methods.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, considering the notable preference among women for traditional contraceptive methods, particularly during epidemics, it is imperative to educate them about the problems associated with these methods. As traditional contraceptive methods can result in unintended pregnancies, educating women about these methods should be integrated into population policies.
Zeynab Zaheri, Mohammad Kazem Fakhri, Shaaban Heydari,
Volume 22, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy on cognitive flexibility and executive functioning in epilepsy patients.
Materials and Methods: This research was a semi-experimental study with a pre-test and post-test format with a control group. The statistical population was all girls aged 7 to 14 years with epilepsy in Mazandaran province, Iran. The statistical sample included 40 girls (20 in the experimental group and 20 in the control group) selected by the available sampling method and randomly assigned in the two groups. The data collection tools were Dennis et al.'s Cognitive Flexibility (2010) and Coolidge's (2002) Executive Function questionnaires. Data analysis was done using SPSS software version 26.
Results: Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) showed that the cognitive behavioral training program had a direct effect on cognitive flexibility and executive functioning of the girls with epilepsy. The effect on cognitive flexibility (F=5.44 (35,1)) and executive functioning (F=2.73 (1,35)) was significantly different at the 0.001 level (P>0.01).
Conclusion: It is concluded that cognitive behavioral therapy has an effect on the cognitive flexibility and executive functioning of epilepsy patients, and the patients affected by cognitive behavioral therapy improve their cognitive flexibility and executive functions.
Hamed Moslehi, Seyedeh Maryam Pourmousavi, Zeinab Zakani, Reyhane Fayyaz,
Volume 22, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Available evidence shows the effectiveness of psychotherapy. However, the number of patients who deteriorate or do not improve is still problematic. On the other hand, while some therapists are generally more successful than others, most therapists have experienced both success and failure of therapy in different cases. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors effective in psychotherapy from the perspective of therapists and clients.
Materials and Methods: Based on the purpose of this research, it can be considered as an applied research and qualitative in nature. Data were collected through interviews and analyzed using the content analysis method based on the analogical approach. The samples of therapists and clients were selected purposefully from the statistical population including 1. Therapists (psychiatrists, psychologists and counselors) licensed by the Psychology and Counseling Organization with 5 years or more of therapy experience, and 2. Clients who had participated in at least one psychotherapy course. The sample size was based on theoretical saturation and, therefore, the interview process continued until ensuring sufficiency of the collected data; thus the interviews ended with the 21st person in the therapists group and the 15th person in the clients group.
Results: The factors in effective treatment were found to be in three areas, namely, the therapist (attitude, competence, personality, maturity, ability and appearance), the client (demographic characteristics, reason and method of referral, insight), and environmental factors (economic, socio-political issues, location of the psychological center, supporting problems, and daily living events of clients and therapists).
Conclusion: The findings of this research show the components and importance of the model of effective factors in effective psychotherapy to policy makers, trustees, professors and therapists in the field of mental health. The achievement of these components can increase the efficiency of the therapists in achieving their goals and also help a clients to choose a therapist.
