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The effectiveness of sand play therapy on psychological distress and interpersonal interaction in orphaned children
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Maryam Mazloom1    , Pegah Farokhzad *2 |
1- Roudehen Branch, Islamic Azad University, Roudehen, Iran
2- Department of Psychology, Roudehen Branch, Islamic Azad University, Roudehen, Iran |
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Abstract: (689 Views) |
Background and Purpose: Psychological distress and difficulties in interpersonal interaction are among primary challenges faced by orphaned children, potentially exerting a profound impact on their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Given crucial role of play-based therapeutic interventions in promoting psychological well-being, this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of sand play therapy on psychological distress and interpersonal interaction among orphaned children.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted using a pretest-posttest control group design. The statistical population included orphaned children aged 7 to 10 years under the supervision of Tehran Welfare Organization during the 2023–2024 academic year. Thirty children were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received eight sessions of sand play therapy, while the control group received no intervention and stayed on the waiting list. Data was collected using the Psychological Distress Scale (PDS; Kessler et al., 2002) and the Interpersonal Interaction Questionnaire (IIQ; Kim & Mitomo, 2006), administered before and after intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS-26 and ANCOVA statistical tests.
Results: The findings demonstrated that sand play therapy produced a significant reduction in psychological distress and an improvement in psychological functioning among orphaned children (F = 5.86, p < 0.01). Additionally, it significantly enhanced their interpersonal interaction (F = 8.67, p < 0.01).
Conclusions: Sand play therapy as an effective intervention can be effective in reducing psychological problems and improving interpersonal skills of orphaned children. It is suggested that this approach be used as part of support and treatment programs for these children. |
Article number: 1 |
| Keywords: Sand play therapy, psychological distress, interpersonal interaction, orphaned children |
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Full-Text [PDF 1261 kb]
(258 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Applicable |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2025/02/27 | Accepted: 2025/06/26 | Published: 2025/09/27
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