Comparison of the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy and acceptance-commitment therapy on the fear of negative evaluation and anxiety in couples referring to counseling centers in Ilam, Iran

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (MBCT) and acceptance-commitment therapy (ACT) on the fear of negative evaluation and anxiety in couples visiting counseling centers in Ilam.   Materials & Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted based on a pretest-posttest design with a control group. The statistical population included all couples referring to Navid, Aramesh, Family (affiliated to the Minisrty of Education), Soroush, and Welfare counseling centers in Ilam, Iran, during 1397. In total, 30 couples were selected using the avaliable sampling method, and they were randomly divided into three groups. The data were collected using the Brief Fear of Negative Evaluation Scale and Anxiety Questionnaire. Subsequently, the obtained data were analysed in SPSS software (version 22).   Findings: The results showed a significant difference among the MBCT, ACT, and control groups in terms of a decrease in the fear of negative evaluation and anxiety level of the couples. However, no significant difference was observed between the two treatment methods in terms of the effects on reducing fear and anxiety levels.   Discussions & Conclusions: The MCBT and ACT had effects on reducing the fear of negative evaluation and anxiety levels. However, there is no significant difference between the two treatment methods in this regard.