Journal of Women Interdisciplinary Researches

Abstract This study aimed to predict internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems in children based on empathy, family communication processes, and mothers’ early maladaptive schemas. The research design was descriptive and correlational. The statistical population consisted of all elementary school children in Yasuj city during the 2022-2023 academic year, along with their mothers. A sample of 361 individuals was selected through multistage cluster random sampling. Data were collected using the Fitzpatrick and Ritchie (1994) Family Communication Patterns Questionnaire, Young’s Schema Questionnaire (YSQ), and Achenbach’s Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). The participants’ scores were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis via SPSS-24 software. The results of the Pearson correlation showed a significant positive correlation between the conformity subscale and internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems, and a significant negative correlation between the conversation subscale and internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems. Additionally, a significant positive correlation was found between the components of early maladaptive schemas (including disconnection/rejection, impaired autonomy/performance, impaired limits, other-directedness, and over-vigilance/inhibition) and internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems. The findings indicated that the conformity subscale and the components of early maladaptive schemas could positively predict internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems in children. These findings can be applied in the etiology of behavioral problems and the development of preventive strategies.

Abstract This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of happiness training on positive affect and life expectancy in women with postpartum depression. The statistical population of this research included all women with postpartum depression who referred to health centers in Kohgiluyeh, Iran during the first quarter of 1400 (Iranian calendar year). From this population, 30 women were randomly selected and assigned to experimental and control groups (15 participants in each group). Both groups completed the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) by Watson and the Herth Hope Index (HHI) before the intervention. The experimental group participated in eight 120-minute group happiness training sessions. After the intervention, both groups completed the questionnaires again. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one-way MANCOVA with SPSS software. The findings indicated a significant positive relationship between happiness training and both positive affect and life expectancy in women with postpartum depression (P < 0.05), as demonstrated by one-way ANCOVA. Therefore, happiness training is an active, purposeful, and appropriate treatment for psychological disorders in primary care centers. This treatment improves patient performance, enhances skills, and helps patients cope with their issues and problems.