The Effect of Web-Based Compassion-Focused Structured Writing Programs on Well-Being in Midwives Working in Delivery Rooms

The Effect of Web-Based Compassion-Focused Writing Program and Reflective Writing Program on Psychological Outcomes in Midwives Working in Delivery Rooms: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of a web-based compassion-focused writing program and a reflective writing program on psychological well-being, self-compassion, postpartum trauma-related stress symptoms, and post-traumatic growth in midwives working in delivery rooms.

This study is planned as a single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effects of two different writing-based interventions on psychological outcomes in midwives working in delivery rooms. During the childbirth process, midwives may occasionally witness traumatic events, which may lead to secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and various psychological difficulties. The literature indicates that expressive writing, reflective writing, and compassion-focused writing approaches contribute to individuals' ability to make sense of traumatic experiences, enhance emotional regulation skills, and support psychological well-being. Accordingly, this study aims to examine the effects of writing-based interventions that may support the psychological resilience of midwives. A total of 90 midwives who meet the inclusion criteria will be included in the study and randomly assigned to two groups using a computer-generated random number sequence. One group will receive a web-based compassion-focused writing program, while the other group will receive a web-based reflective writing program. Both programs will consist of five sessions conducted once per week via an online platform. Data will be collected using a Personal Information Form, Psychological Well-Being Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, City Birth Trauma Scale, and Post-Traumatic Growth Scale - Short Form. Measurements will be conducted before the intervention, immediately after the completion of the program, and during the follow-up period. Additionally, after each session, participants will complete a brief questionnaire to evaluate their writing experience. The collected data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods to compare the effects of both writing programs on psychological well-being, self-compassion, post-traumatic growth, and trauma-related stress symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Working as a midwife in a delivery room between November 1, 2025, and February 15, 2027
2. Native Turkish speaker
3. Female
4. Aged between 18-65 years
5. Having at least a bachelor's degree in midwifery
6. Having at least three years of delivery room experience
7. No diagnosed psychological or psychiatric disorder
8. Having the technical infrastructure to use a web-based program
9. Ability to use a smartphone, tablet, or computer
10. Voluntary agreement to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Not working in a delivery room during the specified dates
2. Not a native Turkish speaker
3. Under 18 or over 65 years of age
4. Male
5. Changing clinical unit during the study
6. Not completing all five intervention sessions
7. Working less than 40 hours per week in the delivery room due to leave or reassignment
8. Voluntary withdrawal from the study at any stage