Effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Therapy on Adaptation and Interpersonal Forgiveness among Divorced Women

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) in improving adaptation and enhancing interpersonal forgiveness among divorced women. This research employed a semi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and control groups. The statistical population consisted of divorced women attending licensed psychological and counseling clinics in eastern Tehran in spring 2025. Thirty participants were purposively selected and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups (15 each). The experimental group received eight weekly two-hour sessions of EFT based on the Johnson and Greenberg model. Data were collected using the Pollard Interpersonal Forgiveness Scale and the Fisher Divorce Adjustment Scale (short form). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 26, applying Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The results revealed a significant effect of EFT on both variables. MANCOVA indicated significant group differences in forgiveness and adjustment (Wilks’ Lambda = 0.395, F = 19.16, p < 0.001). ANCOVA confirmed significant improvements in forgiveness (F = 17.23, p = 0.001, η² = 0.399) and adaptation (F = 10.63, p = 0.003, η² = 0.290) in the experimental group compared to the control group. Emotion-Focused Therapy is an effective approach to promote interpersonal forgiveness and facilitate emotional and social adaptation among divorced women. It can be integrated into clinical and community interventions to support post-divorce psychological recovery.