This randomized controlled trial aims to examine the effects of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based psychoeducation program on expressed emotion, perceived family burden, and psychological flexibility among caregivers of patients with schizophrenia attending a Community Mental Health Center.
The main questions this study aims to answer are:
* Does ACT-based psychoeducation reduce expressed emotion among caregivers of patients with schizophrenia? * Does ACT-based psychoeducation reduce perceived family burden among caregivers of patients with schizophrenia? * Does ACT-based psychoeducation improve psychological flexibility among caregivers of patients with schizophrenia?
Researchers will randomly assign eligible caregivers to either an intervention group receiving an 8-session ACT-based psychoeducation program or a control group receiving routine care.
Participants will:
* Complete assessment measures before the intervention (pre-test). * Participate in 8 ACT-based psychoeducation sessions if assigned to the intervention group. * Continue receiving routine care if assigned to the control group. * Complete assessment measures immediately after the intervention (post-test). * Complete follow-up assessments at 1 month and 3 months after the intervention.
Living with an individual diagnosed with schizophrenia who has been followed and actively receiving services from a Community Mental Health Center for at least one year.
Being the primary caregiver responsible for the care of the individual diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Having been involved in the care and treatment of the individual diagnosed with schizophrenia for at least 12 months prior to the study.
Being between 18 and 65 years of age.
Having a medically diagnosed psychiatric disorder.
Having a diagnosis of an organic mental disorder or intellectual disability.
Having a physical impairment that may interfere with participation in the study or data collection process (e.g., hearing or speech impairment).