Development and Identification of the Dimensions and Components of a Self-Efficacy Training–Based Therapeutic Intervention Package Tailored to the Characteristics of Depressed Women Aged 20–40 Years in Tehran
Keywords:
self-efficacy, depression in women, therapeutic package, grounded theory, empowerment, emotional self-regulationAbstract
Purpose: The present study aimed to develop and identify the dimensions and components of a self-efficacy training–based therapeutic intervention package tailored to the characteristics of depressed women aged 20–40 years in Tehran.
Methods and Materials: This study employed a qualitative approach using grounded theory. The participants included 22 specialists in clinical psychology, family counseling, health psychology, psychiatry, and social work, who were selected through theoretical purposive sampling. In addition, 12 supplementary interviews were conducted with depressed women aged 20–40 years residing in Tehran to provide a deeper understanding of the context-specific characteristics of the target group. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the systematic approach proposed by Strauss and Corbin (1998), comprising open, axial, and selective coding.
Findings: The findings led to the identification of five principal components of the therapeutic package: self-efficacy beliefs, emotional self-regulation, personal agency, coping skills, and perceived social support. A paradigmatic model was also developed that included causal conditions—multiple-role pressures, gender discrimination and restrictions, socioeconomic factors, traumatic experiences, and cognitive and emotional factors; the central phenomenon—low self-efficacy and depression among women; contextual conditions—individual characteristics, social support, socioeconomic status, culture and social beliefs, and access to treatment services; intervening conditions—facilitators and barriers; strategies—priority therapeutic components, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional techniques, and the structural characteristics of the package; and consequences—reduced depressive symptoms, increased self-efficacy, improved interpersonal relationships, enhanced quality of life, and reduced somatic symptoms.
Conclusion: Based on the findings, a self-efficacy-based therapeutic package was developed in the form of 16 structured sessions. The package emphasizes a self-efficacy-centered orientation, practical and assignment-based activities, a safe and nonjudgmental environment, cultural adaptation, and family involvement, particularly the involvement of the spouse.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Raheleh Hematiahouei (Author); Azita Amirfakhraei ; Saeid Kiani (Author)
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