Psychology of Exceptional Individuals

The Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on Reducing Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms in Mothers of Children with Multiple Disabilities

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Maryam Hasheminasab 1
Azra Mohammadpanah Ardakan 2
Azadeh Choobforoushzadeh 2
Mohammadhosein Barkhordary dashtkhaki 1

1 Rehabilitation Counseling, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Ardakan University, Ardakan, Iran

2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Ardakan University, Ardakan, Iran

10.22054/jpe.2026.85803.2816
Abstract
The co-occurrence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and the responsibility of caring for a child with multiple disabilities significantly impacts mothers' mental health. The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in reducing OCD symptoms among mothers of children with multiple disabilities. This single-subject study was conducted in 2023 with four mothers diagnosed with OCD residing in Isfahan. Participants were selected purposefully and voluntarily. The research instrument was the Padua Inventory (PI), administered at baseline (pre-treatment), during treatment (sessions 2, 4, 6, and 8), and at a one-month follow-up. Participants underwent eight 45-minute sessions over two months. Data were analyzed using percentage of improvement, Reliable Change Index (RCI), and visual graph analysis. The results indicated that ACT significantly reduced obsessive-compulsive symptoms in the participants. Furthermore, the therapy, through fostering acceptance of thoughts and emotions, enhanced the mothers’ ability to manage stress and improved their quality of life. The findings confirm the effectiveness of ACT in alleviating OCD symptoms and improving both personal and family functioning, emphasizing its value in treating OCD.

Keywords

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Mothers of Children with Multiple Disabilities
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Psychology of Exceptional Individuals

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 12 September 2026

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