International Journal of Behavioral Sciences

International Journal of Behavioral Sciences

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in Reducing Anxiety, Marital Burnout, and Self-Disgust among Women who have Suffered Domestic Violence

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Mohsen Amiri 1
Mahrokh Zardinahr 2
Zekrollah morovati 2
Ehsan Malahmadi 3
Somaye Tavasoloian ghomashchi 4
Faeze Rostamian 4
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
2 Department of Psychology, University of Zanjan, Zanjan , Iran
3 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
4 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Zanjan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Zanjan, Iran
10.30491/ijbs.2025.461417.2126
Abstract
Introduction: Domestic violence significantly impacts women's psychological well-being. This research explored the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in reducing anxiety, marital burnout, and feelings of self-disgust among women who have experienced domestic violence.
Method: In this study, a quasi-experimental design with a control group was employed. Thirty women who had experienced domestic violence by their husbands and sought help at a psychological services center in Zanjan, Iran, were randomly assigned to either the experimental group receiving EMDR or the control group. Following the completion of the therapy sessions, all participants in both groups once again completed the same questionnaires to evaluate potential changes.
Results: Multivariate analysis of covariance revealed that EMDR therapy significantly reduced anxiety, marital burnout, and self-disgust in the experimental group compared to the control group.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that EMDR therapy may be a beneficial tool for reducing the psychological distress experienced by women who have endured domestic violence.
 
Keywords
EMDR
Violence
Anxiety
Self-disgust
Marital Burnout
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International Journal of Behavioral Sciences
Volume 18, Issue 4
Winter 2025
Pages 185-192