Effectiveness of cognitive behavioral counseling-based film therapy on the communication skills of females with low sexual Desire

Context: Several researchers emphasized to develop cost-effective and easy interventions in this field as communicating about the relationship is the first step of healing.

Aims: This study was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral counseling based on film therapy on the communication skills of females with low sexual function.

Setting and Design: In this clinical trial study, fifty subjects selected among females referred to health centers of Gonbad-e Kavus City-Iran.

Materials and Methods: Samples randomized through permuted block randomization into two intervention (N=25) and control (N=25) groups. The intervention group participated in eight sessions of cognitive behavioral counseling (CBC)-based film therapy while the control group did not receive any intervention. All participants assessed by demographic, Arizona Sexual Experience Scale and Jerabeck Communication Skills Scales in pre and post intervention stages.

Statistical Analysis Used: Data is analyzed using descriptive& independent t-test.

Results: Findings showed that the two groups did not differ significantly in terms of age, education, and duration of marriage. The control (65.65 ± 6.75) and intervention groups (66.18 ± 7.32) were not significantly different in terms of communication skills before the intervention. However, in the postintervention phase, there was a significant difference between the control (66.04 ± 7.29) and intervention (74.95 ± 6.12) groups in term of communication skills (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, CBT based on film therapy can improve communication skills among females with low sexual function in all aspects. Therefore, it is recommended to use this therapeutic approach to improve couples’ relationships with low sexual performance.