Positive psychotherapy model: Explaining and Enhancing mental health based on the Positive components Through Content Analysis of the Holy Quran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Corresponding Author: PhD Candidate in Counseling, Allameh Tabatabai University, Tehran, Iran

2 Professor, Counseling Department, Allameh Tabatabai University, Tehran, Iran:

3 Assistant Professor of Psychology, Psychology Department, Birjand University, Birjand, Iran

4 Associate Professor, Counseling Department, Allameh Tabatabai University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Objective: The present study aimed to design and evaluate the effectiveness of a Qur’an-based positive psychotherapy model to enhance mental health among teacher trainees. While positive psychology has contributed significantly to the promotion of well-being, its secular and individualistic foundations limit its applicability in Islamic cultural contexts. The Qur’an provides a meaningful framework with concepts such as reliance on God, patience, divine mercy, and inner peace through remembrance.
Method: This quasi-experimental research employed a pretest–posttest design with a control group and follow-up stage. The statistical population consisted of 34 male teacher trainees at Farhangian University in Tehran (2023), selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to experimental (n=17) and control (n=17) groups. The experimental group received ten 90-minute sessions of Qur’an-based positive psychotherapy. Data collection tools included the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests.
Results: Results showed a significant impact of the Qur’an-based positive psychotherapy on mental health (F=1320.595, p<0.001, η²=0.977). Significant improvements were observed in all subscales of mental health: somatic symptoms, social dysfunction, anxiety, and depression. The intervention led to substantial reductions in anxiety and depression, as well as improvements in psychological well-being, with effects persisting during follow-up.
Conclusion: The Qur’an-based positive psychotherapy model effectively addressed the limitations of secular positive psychology by integrating spiritual and cultural dimensions. Concepts such as hope, divine mercy, patience, and inner tranquility contributed to the enhancement of mental health among participants. This study provides a structured and evidence-based model for integrating Qur’anic teachings into psychotherapy and offers a foundation for broader applications in Islamic educational and therapeutic contexts.

Keywords

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 14 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 11 June 2025
  • Accept Date: 11 May 2025

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