Clinical Psychology Studies

Clinical Psychology Studies

A Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of tDCS and Motivational Interviewing on Self-Control and Craving Reduction in Male Narcotic Addicts.

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Farid Tashakkori Arani 1
Fatemeh Mohammadi Shirmahaleh 2
Mona Daryaafzoon 2
Alireza Shokrgozar 2
Javid Peymani 3
1 Department of Health & Clinical Psychology, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran. Clinical Cares and Health promotion Research Center, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University
2 Department of Health & Clinical Psychology, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran. Clinical Cares and Health promotion Research Center, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran.
3 Department of Psychology, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Clinical Cares and Health promotion Research Center, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran.
10.22054/jcps.2026.89207.3296
Abstract
Introduction and Objective: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and motivational interviewing in enhancing self-control, and reducing drug craving, among men addicted to narcotics.
Research Methodology: This is a quasi-experimental applied research that was conducted in 2025. The statistical population consisted of male drug addicts supported by the Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation in Alborz Province, specifically those referred to the Rose Clinic and the Article 16 Addiction Treatment Camp in Kalak, Karaj. A total of 60 participants were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to four groups: 15 received tDCS, 15 underwent sham stimulation, 15 received motivational interviewing, and 15 served as a control group. The research instruments included the Drug Desire Questionnaire (DDQ) and the Self-Control Scale. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and repeated measures ANOVA via SPSS version 24.
Findings: Both tDCS and motivational interviewing significantly reduced drug craving (P ≤ 0.05). However, unlike motivational interviewing, tDCS did not show a significant effect on self-control. Follow-up analysis two months later revealed that the effects of motivational interviewing on craving were more enduring than those of tDCS.
Conclusion: Given the longer-lasting impact of motivational interviewing, it is recommended that specialized training programs be developed for psychologists and addiction treatment professionals to enhance their use of motivational interviewing in therapeutic settings.
Keywords
Addiction
Drug Craving
Motivational Interviewing
Self-Control
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)
Clinical Psychology Studies

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 06 September 2026