The effectiveness of self-differentiation training on improving family process and content in demanding couples of contested divorce

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of self-differentiation training on improving family process and content in demanding couples of contested divorce. Method: A quas-experimential design with pre-test, post-test and a two months follow- up with control group was used. The statistical population included demanding couples of mutual-consent divorce referring to the counselling clinic of Behravan in Qazvin in 2018. 10 couples (20 participants) were selected purposeful sampling and assigned in experimental and control groups. Research tools were questionnaires of Samani’s (2008) family process and content. self-differentiation was trained on experimental group in 10 weekly 90 minute sessions. The changes of family process and content was measured in posttest and follow-up and data were analyzed by repeated measurement. Results: Results indicated that self-differentiation significantly have promoted family process (P<0.01, F=21.14) and Family process (P<0.01, F= 23.32). this effect was observed in follow up and 4 couples give up divorce (P>0.01, t= 0.01). Conclusion: self-differentiation training thorough empowering couples in moderating between reason and feel and differentiate of self from original family, effect on the functions of family process and content. therefore, it can be used as an efficient psycho educational package for improving the functions of family process and content in demanding couples of contested divorce and preventing divorce.