Developing a cultural psychotherapy package based on Quranic verses and mystical themes of Mantiq al-Tair among women with multiple sclerosis (MS)

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent inflammatory neurologic disease involved with psychological side effects. This study aimed to develop a cultural psychotherapy package among women with multiple sclerosis. This was a qualitative research with content and thematic analysis approach. Fifteen women with MS and eight related specialists were interviewed through semi-structured interviews. The data were collected until saturation achieved. After coding, the data was analyzed through conventional content analysis using the Holy Quran, and the mystical themes of Attar Neyshabouri's Mantiq al-Tair. Participants were selected via a goal-oriented sampling method. Augmentation of life skills, coping behavior, efficient coping behaviors, cognition, purposefulness of creation, preservation of human dignity, death awareness, eternal life, human authority and responsibility, faith in divine care, genuine relationships, value of suffering, moral principles such as non-attachment to the world, patience, charity, self-sacrifice formed the basic themes of the package. The content of package therapy sessions was adjusted on the themes in eight weekly sessions. The cultural psychotherapy package based on Quranic verses and mystical themes of Mantiq al-Tair is a comprehensive psychological treatment that includes all aspects of human existence. It is recommended for women with MS.

Keywords

• cultural psychotherapy
• multiple sclerosis
• women