RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06892613

EFCT vs. BCT for Depression and Anxiety in Married Couples

A Comparison of the Effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy and Behavioral Couples Therapy in Reducing Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Married Couples

Sponsor

Beykoz University

Enrollment

150 participants

Start Date

Jan 1, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Anxiety Depression Anxiety Disorder

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

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 65 Years

Inclusion Criteria6

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 Criteria5

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

Interventions

BEHAVIORALEmotion-Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT)

EFCT is a structured approach to couples therapy that focuses on helping partners understand and express their emotions, address attachment insecurities, and strengthen their emotional connection.

BEHAVIORALBehavioral Couples Therapy (BCT)

BCT is a form of therapy that aims to improve relationship satisfaction through behavioral change, communication training, and problem-solving techniques.