Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
Psychology Department of Psychology and Educational Science of Shahid Beheshti University. Tehran.Iran
Abstract
Introduction: The environmental characteristics of spaces providing mental health services can influence the emotions, behaviors, and thoughts of both clients and psychologists. Purpose: This study aims to identify the most crucial aspects of the physical environment in treatment rooms for clients and to compare the perspectives of therapists and clients regarding their significance. Method: This study employed a mixed-methods approach. The qualitative sample consisted of 16 experts and 19 clients, while the quantitative sample comprised 40 experts and 66 clients selected through targeted sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and a physical characteristics scale. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and independent single-sample t-tests. Findings: The most critical aspects of the physical environment in treatment rooms for clients included behavioral, artistic, and aesthetic features, as well as safety and security measures. For therapists, crucial aspects were lighting and color, ergonomic design, environmental conditions, indoor and outdoor spatial structures, lighting, sound, and air temperature. There was general agreement between therapists and clients regarding the importance of these aspects. Conclusion: Physical environmental factors are significant for both therapists and clients, although there are differences in their perspectives on certain factors. It is essential to consider their needs and psychological states when designing treatment rooms.
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