Survey of Influence of Cognitive Therapy Principles and Techniques Training and Subjects Self –help to Anxiety rate among Nursing Students in Tehran Universities of Medical Sciences.

Abstract

Abstract: This study is a quasi –experimental with non –randomized control group pretest post -test design. The study was fulfilled in Nursing College of Medical Sciences Universities in Tehran. The purpose of study was determining influence of cognitive therapy principles and techniques training and subjects self –help to anxiety rate among nursing students. Main hypothesis was: "cognitive therapy is effective to reduce nursing student's anxiety rate". Utilized instruments included Cattle's Anxiety Scale, Spiel Berger's State – Trait Anxiety Inventory, Group Interview questionnaire and personal History. Sampling was purposive: Then 223 volunteers were selected for pretest. After administration of pretest, 78 volunteers with moderate and high anxiety (score 36 and over based on Cattle's Anxiety Scales) were selected for training program. So, they were randomly divided into control (waiting -list) and experimental groups. The last was trained for 6 weeks (six two hours sessions), while control group was participated only one session to be informed about anxiety phenomenon. After finishing the experimental group training, Post –test was administered. Data analysis showed that two groups were match from the view point of total, convert and overt anxiety average, personal history including age, school year, financial status, residence place, marital status and kind of house (P not significant). Post –test comparison between two groups showed statistical and clinical significant difference in total, covert and overt anxiety. It resulted from the mentioned, cognitive therapy principles and techniques training and subjects self –help is effective to reduce anxiety rate. Most expressed that sessions were effective and had positive results on their self –esteem and attitudes to psychological problems. In the end, application of findings in nursing were discussed and some recommendation presented.