Aida Mirizadeh - B. Sc in Psychology, Zand Institute of Higher Education, Shiraz, Iran
Salem Jafari - PhD in Psychology

This research aims to compare the effectiveness of integrated couple therapy (IBCT) and Eric Berne's mutual relationship therapy (TA) on marital conflicts and family flexibility in spouses of drug addicts. Using a quasi-experimental method, ۳۰ spouses (۱۰ per group) were randomly assigned to either IBCT, TA, or a control group. Participants completed pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments of marital conflict and family flexibility using the Marital Conflicts Questionnaire (MCQ) and Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales III (FACES-III). The IBCT group received ۱۲ sessions of integrated couple therapy and the TA group received ۱۲ sessions of mutual relationship therapy, while the control group received no intervention. Results showed both IBCT and TA significantly reduced marital conflicts and increased family flexibility compared to the control group. However, IBCT was more effective than TA in improving marital conflicts and family flexibility. These findings suggest integrated approaches like IBCT, which simultaneously target substance abuse and relationships, may be optimal for treating spouses of addicts. Further research into these integrated therapies is warranted to support greater acceptance among family counselors.

Couple Therapy, Mutual Relationships, Conflicts, Flexibility, Addicts