The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Depression and Anxiety among Women Victims of Domestic Violence

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Domestic violence is one of the most serious social and psychological problems that can lead to significant mental health consequences, including depression and anxiety among women. The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in reducing depression and anxiety among women victims of domestic violence.

Methodology: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test measures alongside a control group. The statistical population consisted of women victims of domestic violence who referred to counseling centers in Tehran in 2024. Thirty participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned into experimental and control groups. Data were collected using the Beck Depression Inventory (1996) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory developed by Beck et al. (1990). The experimental group received eight 90-minute sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy, while the control group received no intervention. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Findings: The results of ANCOVA demonstrated that cognitive behavioral therapy had a significant effect on reducing depression among women victims of domestic violence (F=12.38, p<0.01, η²=0.36). In addition, CBT significantly reduced anxiety levels in the experimental group compared to the control group (F=104.57, p<0.01, η²=0.65). The findings indicated that participants who received CBT experienced substantial reductions in depressive and anxiety symptoms after the intervention.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective intervention for reducing depression and anxiety among women victims of domestic violence. Through cognitive restructuring, modification of dysfunctional thoughts, and enhancement of coping skills, CBT can improve psychological well-being and alleviate emotional distress associated with domestic violence.