Effectiveness of Reality Therapy on Behavioral Control and Self-Differentiation Among Couples Referring to Counseling Centers in Bandar Mahshahr

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of reality therapy in improving behavioral control and self-differentiation among couples referring to counseling centers in Bandar Mahshahr. This quasi-experimental study employed an ABA single-case design with repeated measurements. The statistical population consisted of couples attending counseling and psychological centers in Bandar Mahshahr from August to November 2025. Four couples, comprising eight participants, were selected through purposive sampling. Participants were evaluated during baseline, intervention, and follow-up phases. The reality therapy intervention was based on Glasser’s protocol and focused on choice theory, basic needs, total behavior, internal control, personal responsibility, the WDEP system, and SMART planning. Data were collected using the behavioral control subscale of the McMaster Family Assessment Device and the Differentiation of Self Inventory. Data were analyzed through within-condition and between-condition visual analyses, including changes in level, trend, stability, percentage of non-overlapping data, percentage of overlapping data, and improvement percentages. Behavioral control scores decreased across all four couples from the baseline to the intervention phase, indicating improvement because higher scores represented poorer family functioning. The PND value was 100% and the POD value was zero for all couples. Improvement in behavioral control ranged from 27% to 40% during treatment and from 43% to 59% at follow-up. Self-differentiation scores increased consistently during the intervention and follow-up phases. The PND value from baseline to intervention was 100% for all couples. Improvement in self-differentiation ranged from 26% to 59% during treatment and from 36% to 71% at follow-up. Changes in both outcomes were consistent with the therapeutic objectives, and the intervention effects were largely maintained or strengthened during follow-up. Reality therapy appears to improve couples’ behavioral control and self-differentiation by promoting internal control, responsibility, self-evaluation, adaptive behavioral choices, and reduced attempts to control one’s spouse. Therefore, it may be considered a practical intervention for strengthening marital functioning and psychological autonomy in family counseling centers.