The Effectiveness of a Logotherapy-Based Counseling Program in Promoting Volunteerism and Reducing Alexithymia Among Retirees in Jerusalem

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a counseling program grounded in logotherapy in enhancing volunteerism and reducing alexithymia among retirees in Jerusalem. Employing a quasi-experimental design, the study sample consisted of 30 retired individuals, randomly assigned into two equal groups: an experimental group that received the counseling intervention and a control group that did not receive any psychological support. Two instruments were developed to measure levels of volunteerism and alexithymia, and their psychometric properties were validated. A structured counseling program based on logotherapy principles was also designed and implemented. The findings revealed that the intervention significantly improved participants’ attitudes toward volunteer work and led to a notable decrease in alexithymia levels within the experimental group. Follow-up assessments indicated the persistence of these positive effects, suggesting the program’s long-term efficacy. Based on these outcomes, the study recommends incorporating meaning-centered counseling programs into psychosocial support services for retirees and promoting structured volunteer opportunities aligned with their skills and interests.