Comparing the Effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Cognitive Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Emotional Self-Regulation in Women Affected by Marital Infidelity

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Marital infidelity is considered one of the most destructive interpersonal experiences and is associated with severe emotional, cognitive, and social consequences that can significantly impair emotional self-regulation in women. The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Cognitive Therapy (EFCT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on emotional self-regulation among women affected by marital infidelity.

Methodology: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and three-month follow-up along with a control group. The statistical population consisted of women affected by marital infidelity who referred to specialized family counseling centers in Chalus City in 2025. A total of 45 participants were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned into three groups: EFCT, ACT, and a control group. Data were collected using the Gross and John (2003) Emotional Self-Regulation Scale. The first experimental group received ten 90-minute sessions of Emotion-Focused Cognitive Therapy, while the second experimental group participated in ten 90-minute sessions of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The control group received no intervention. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance and repeated measures analysis of variance in SPSS-22.

Findings: The results of multivariate covariance analysis indicated a significant difference among the three groups in emotional self-regulation (P<0.01). Both EFCT and ACT significantly improved emotional self-regulation compared to the control group. Bonferroni post hoc analysis further demonstrated that EFCT was significantly more effective than ACT in enhancing emotional self-regulation. Follow-up findings also confirmed the stability and persistence of treatment effects over time.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that both Emotion-Focused Cognitive Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are effective interventions for improving emotional self-regulation in women affected by marital infidelity; however, Emotion-Focused Cognitive Therapy demonstrated greater effectiveness. Therefore, this therapeutic approach may be considered a valuable intervention in family counseling and psychological rehabilitation programs for women experiencing marital betrayal.