Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 PhD student in Psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
2 Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
3 Associate Professor, Department of Counseling, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
Abstract
Background: Infertility, especially when accompanied by repeated treatment failures, can lead to severe psychological distress and suicidal ideation. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Self-Compassion Therapy (MSCT) in reducing feelings of failure, social rejection, and perceived burdensomeness among infertile women with suicidal thoughts.
Materials and Methods: This research employed a single-subject design with multiple baselines. The study population included infertile women with suicidal ideation who visited infertility treatment centers in Tehran during the first half of 2024. Based on the inclusion criteria, six participants were selected. Data were collected at baseline, during the intervention, and follow-up stages using three instruments: the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R), the Failure Scale, and the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire (INQ). Data analysis was performed using SPSS and Excel, including visual graphs, the Reliable Change Index, and percentage improvement.
Results: The percentage improvement in feelings of defeat was 34.7% after treatment and 38.16% at follow-up. Social rejection demonstrated the greatest improvement: 57.18% after treatment and 63.33% at follow-up. Perceived burdensomeness also decreased by 42.15% after treatment, amounting to 44.83% at follow-up. Differences were observed among participants in their level of responsiveness to the intervention.
Conclusion: The results suggest that Mindfulness-Based Self-Compassion Therapy is an effective intervention for reducing psychological risk factors associated with suicidal ideation in infertile women. By enhancing emotional resilience, strengthening social bonds, and fostering self-compassion, MSCT helps reduce feelings of failure, isolation, and burdensomeness.
Keywords
- Mindful-self-compassion
- feeling of defeat
- Belongingness
- Perceived burdensomeness
- infertile women with Suicidal thoughts
Main Subjects
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