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Department of Counseling, Ma.C., Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran. , dr.nejat54@iau.ac.ir
Abstract: (11 Views)
Background: Although insecure attachment is linked to maladaptive shame, few studies have examined integrated interventions targeting both constructs. While attachment-based therapy addresses relational patterns and compassion-focused therapy reduces self-criticism, the combined efficacy of these approaches remains understudied. This study bridges this gap by evaluating their integrated package on attachment styles and shame in adults with insecure attachment.
Aims: The present study aimed to examine the effects of an integrated attachment-based therapy and compassion-focused therapy package on attachment styles and shame in adults with insecure attachment.
Methods: This quasi-experimental research employed a pretest-posttest design with a control group and three-month follow-up. The statistical population included all artists working at the Independent Theater Campus of Mashhad in 2024. Thirty participants were selected through convenience sampling based on inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the Attachment Styles Questionnaire (Hazan & Shaver, 1987), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (Gross & John, 2003), Self-Conscious Affect Questionnaire (Tangney et al., 1992), and Fear of Intimacy Scale (Descutner & Thelen, 1991). SPSS software version 27 and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to analyze the data.
Results: Findings indicated that the integrated therapy package significantly improved attachment styles (p < 0.05) and reduced shame in adults with insecure attachment (p < 0.05). These effects remained stable at follow-up (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The results suggest that combining these two therapeutic approaches can serve as an effective intervention for improving attachment issues and shame in clinical populations. Therapists can utilize this integrated protocol to alleviate clients' distress and enhance interpersonal relationships.
Aims: The present study aimed to examine the effects of an integrated attachment-based therapy and compassion-focused therapy package on attachment styles and shame in adults with insecure attachment.
Methods: This quasi-experimental research employed a pretest-posttest design with a control group and three-month follow-up. The statistical population included all artists working at the Independent Theater Campus of Mashhad in 2024. Thirty participants were selected through convenience sampling based on inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the Attachment Styles Questionnaire (Hazan & Shaver, 1987), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (Gross & John, 2003), Self-Conscious Affect Questionnaire (Tangney et al., 1992), and Fear of Intimacy Scale (Descutner & Thelen, 1991). SPSS software version 27 and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to analyze the data.
Results: Findings indicated that the integrated therapy package significantly improved attachment styles (p < 0.05) and reduced shame in adults with insecure attachment (p < 0.05). These effects remained stable at follow-up (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The results suggest that combining these two therapeutic approaches can serve as an effective intervention for improving attachment issues and shame in clinical populations. Therapists can utilize this integrated protocol to alleviate clients' distress and enhance interpersonal relationships.
Article number: 12
Keywords: attachment-based therapy, compassion-focused therapy, adults with insecure attachment, attachment styles, shame.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2025/05/25 | Accepted: 2025/12/19 | Published: 2026/07/23
Received: 2025/05/25 | Accepted: 2025/12/19 | Published: 2026/07/23
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This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)