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Vosoughian F, Khodagholi F, Zeinaddini-Meymand A, Mousavi M A, Karimi R, Rasooli T, et al . Promoting Mental Well-being in Iranian Children: Assessing the Impact of a Philosophy for Children Program Through Behavioral Evaluation. BCN 2025; 16 (6) :1131-1142
URL: http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-3159-fa.html

Introduction: Given today’s intricate individual and societal demands, conventional educational strategies may not adequately meet essential needs. Consequently, alternative methodologies, such as ‘philosophy for children’ (P4C), have gained traction. In Iran, P4C has been implemented in the education of young children over the past decade, with a distinct focus on enhancing reasoning and critical thinking skills. This study aimed to assess the impact of P4C interventions on the mental well-being of children aged 6-13 over nine months. The evaluation included an analysis of conduct problems, social problems, hyperactivity, anxiety, and inattention symptoms. 
Methods: This study included 74 children aged 6–13 years. They were randomly divided into an experimental group (n=37) and a wait-list control group (n=37). Pre- and post-P4C intervention assessments were conducted using the Connors teacher rating scale (CTRS) and the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham (SNAP-IV) scores, both administered by teachers. The intervention group engaged in weekly philosophical group discussions for 9 months as part of the study.
Results: The findings indicated that the P4C group showed significant reductions in symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, conduct problems, social problems, anxiety, and total symptoms compared to the control group. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) results revealed significant differences between the groups across all domains of CTRS and SNAP-IV scale, with large effect sizes indicating a substantial impact of the intervention on behavioral outcomes.
Conclusion: These findings highlight the significant impact of P4C interventions in addressing behavioral challenges in children, emphasizing the importance of integrating philosophy-based approaches in education to promote children’s behavioral well-being.