Regional and Marital Duration Differences in Maladaptive Thought Patterns, Emotional Reactivity, and Sleep Quality in Patients with Depression

Authors

  • Varia Aziz MPhil Scholar, Riphah Institute of Clinical & Professional Psychology, Riphah International University, Lahore, Pakistan. https://orcid.org/0009-0009-4262-6814
  • Anum Rabbani Assistant Professor, Riphah Institute of Clinical & Professional Psychology, Riphah International University, Lahore, Pakistan. https://orcid.org/0009-0008-4599-7154

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52053/jpap.v6i4.425

Keywords:

Depression, Emotional Reactivity, Maladaptive Thought Patterns, Sleep Quality

Abstract

The present study was conducted to investigate differences in maladaptive thought patterns, emotional reactivity, and sleep quality in terms of region (Rawalakot vs. Lahore) and duration of marriage among patients diagnosed with depression.  A total of 212 young adults clinically diagnosed with depression participated in this study. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data were collected from psychiatric outpatient departments of the government hospitals and private clinics using a demographic information questionnaire alongside standardized scales, including the Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire, the Perth Emotional Reactivity Scale, and the Insomnia Severity Index. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-tests and one-way analysis of variance, and the results indicated significant differences in maladaptive thought patterns, emotional reactivity, and sleep quality based on regional background, with rural participants exhibiting higher maladaptive thought patterns and emotional reactivity, while urban participants reported poorer sleep quality. Marital duration also influenced sleep quality, with individuals married for five or more years reporting higher insomnia scores. These findings highlight the interrelated functioning of cognitive, emotional, and sleep processes in depression and emphasize the need for integrated treatment approaches targeting these areas. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of culturally and regionally sensitive mental health interventions that account for demographic and marital factors to improve overall mental health and sleep outcomes. The current study can provide guidance for clinicians and researchers in designing effective assessment and intervention strategies for individuals with depression in Pakistan.

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Published

2025-12-31

How to Cite

Aziz, V., & Rabbani, A. (2025). Regional and Marital Duration Differences in Maladaptive Thought Patterns, Emotional Reactivity, and Sleep Quality in Patients with Depression. Journal of Professional & Applied Psychology, 6(4), 545–555. https://doi.org/10.52053/jpap.v6i4.425

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 4 (2025): Journal of Professional & Applied Psychology

Section

Original Articles

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Copyright (c) 2025 Varia Aziz, Anum Rabbani

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