Fatemeh Azhdari1, Dr. Mehdi Mohammadi2
[1]. Master of Educational Psychology, Shiraz University – Consultant at Shiraz University Educational Complex
[2]. Associate Professor, Department of Educational Management and Planning, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Shiraz University
Abstract
This research aimed to explore parents’ experiences of participating in the Mindfulness-Integrated Cognitive Behavior Therapy (MiCBT) program and its impact on stress management in stressful situations. The present study employed a qualitative approach using Colaizzi’s thematic analysis method. The research sample consisted of six parents (five mothers and one father) who were purposefully selected using snowball sampling. Data were collected and analyzed through semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed that participants reported positive changes in various aspects of their stress experience after participating in MiCBT. These changes were categorized into three main organizing themes: “Transformation of Stress Experience” (including increased awareness and understanding of stress, improved emotion regulation, changes in coping strategies, and improved interpersonal relationships), “Practical Experience of MiCBT” (including effective techniques and challenges and barriers to practicing the exercises), and “Facilitating and Inhibiting Factors” (including regular practice, motivation, physical problems, and lack of time). Participants identified breathing awareness and body scan techniques as the most effective MiCBT techniques. The results indicate that MiCBT can be used as an effective intervention for stress management in parents in stressful situations and can help improve their quality of life and relationships. These findings are consistent with previous research on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions and emphasize the importance of using this approach in parental stress management.