The effect of cognitive behavioral therapy based on health psychology on perfectionism and quality of life

Abstract

Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy based on health psychology on perfectionism and the quality of life (QOL). Materials and Methods: The plan of research is an experimental design by pretest–posttest and control group. The statistical population consists of all clients referring to Talie Counseling and Psychological Services Center located at region 4 of Tehran, of which 30 individuals who had higher perfectionism tendency based on the structured interview were selected as research sample and placed randomly in two: the two-test group and the control group. The test group went under group cognitive behavioral treatment for 2 months (8 sessions, 90 min/session). To evaluate perfectionism, the rate of them was applied and life quality was evaluated through a short form of life quality questionnaire of WH. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and covariance analysis (MANCOVA). Results: It was found that cognitive behavioral therapy reduced perfectionism and increased the QOL in the experimental group compared to that of the control group. In fact, perfectionism is rooted in dysfunctional thoughts, negative beliefs, and cognitive distortions that are reduced by cognitive behavioral therapy. When a person's perfectionism decreases, the QOL also improves due to the reduction of anxiety. Conclusion: The present study is one of the main applications of health psychology. Cognitive behavioral interventions have an appropriate effect on perfectionism and solving their related problems. It seems that perfectionism is reduced using cognitive behavioral techniques and practices, and finally, the QOL can improve.