Comparison of the Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Schema Therapy on Mental Health and Social Adjustment in Individuals with Gender Dysphoria

The present study aims to compare the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and schema therapy on mental health and social adjustment in individuals with gender dysphoria. This applied research utilized a quasi-experimental design with pretest-posttest control group and a three-month follow-up. The statistical population included all individuals with varying degrees of gender dysphoria who had referred to treatment centers and clinics across Shiraz between 2021 and 2023. The research sample was selected using convenience sampling from individuals with gender dysphoria who had visited therapeutic clinics in Shiraz. Initially, individuals aged 18 to 40 who self-identified with gender dysphoria and had sought help at three psychiatric centers were invited to attend one of the city’s counseling and psychotherapy centers. A clinical interview was conducted by a psychiatrist and a clinical psychologist to confirm the diagnosis of gender dysphoria. From those who met the inclusion criteria, 60 individuals were selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to three groups: experimental group 1 (CBT, 20 participants), experimental group 2 (schema therapy, 20 participants), and a control group (20 participants). The experimental groups received intervention programs, while the control group received no interventions and was placed on a waitlist. The results of the study indicated that cognitive-behavioral therapy was more effective than schema therapy in improving mental health and social adjustment in individuals with gender dysphoria. Based on the findings of the present study, the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy, in comparison to schema therapy, is emphasized for supporting individuals with gender dysphoria in enhancing mental health and social adjustment.