Comparing the Effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Therapy and Happiness Training in Enhancing Self-concept among Adolescents Recovering from Suicide Attempts

Abstract

Objective: Adolescents with a history of suicide attempts often experience low self-concept, which negatively impacts their psychological resilience and well-being. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Group Counseling (EFT) and Lyubomirsky’s Happiness Training in enhancing self-concept among these adolescents. Methods and Materials: A quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and a two-month follow-up was employed. The study population included all male high school students (grades 1 and 2) in District 20 of Tehran during the 2022–23 academic year who had a history of suicide attempts and were referred to the Counseling Center of the Education Department. A total of 45 students meeting the inclusion criteria were purposively selected and randomly assigned to two experimental groups (EFT, Happiness Training) and one control group (15 students per group). Interventions consisted of eight 120-minute sessions conducted twice a week, focusing on emotional regulation (EFT) and fostering positive emotions and meaning (Happiness Training). Self-concept was assessed using Miller's Self-Concept Questionnaire, and data were analyzed using mixed ANOVA. Findings: The results showed significant improvements in self-concept for both intervention groups compared to the control group at post-test and follow-up (P<0.05). Lyubomirsky’s Happiness Training demonstrated greater and more sustained effects than EFT (P<0.05). Conclusion: Lyubomirsky’s Happiness Training appears to be more effective than EFT in improving self-concept among adolescents with a history of suicide attempts. These findings support the inclusion of positive psychology-based interventions in mental health programs targeting at-risk youth.