Efficacy of the intervention based on the self-silencing model in reducing depression and increasing self-expression in women with depression symptoms

Background. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the self-silencing model in reducing depression and increasing self-expression of depressed women. The self-silencing model is influenced by cognitive, attachment, and gestalt theories, and the role of social and cultural factors is emphasized in it, and these factors lead to depression in women by creating obstacles in expressing their wishes, opinions, and desires. Methods. This was a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test and post-test design with a control group and with random replacement. In this study, using the study of treatment protocols, as well as receiving guidance from the theorists of this model and their colleagues, intervention programs based on it were prepared. The sample of this study included 30 femle teachers from 20 to 40 years old with bachelor's degrees who had depressive symptoms based on the results of The Beck questionnaire and clinical interview. Thus, the research sample included the self-silencing group and the control group, which were obtained from each pre-test and post-test group using the self-expression questionnaire and The Beck questionnaire. Between pre-test and post-test, experimental group received an intervention program. Finally, the scores obtained from pre-test and post-test were analyzed by analysis of covariance using SPSS software. Results. The results of data analysis showed that the intervention based on self-silencing is effective in reducing the depression of the experimental group. Likewise, this intervention method increased self-expression in the experimental group. No significant change was observed in the control group. Conclusion. According to the findings of this research, it can be said that using the self-silencing model can be an efficient method in reducing women's depression symptoms and increasing self-expression in them. Practical Implications. Psychotherapists can use the self-silencing model as one of the effective methods to reduce the symptoms of depression.