Jurnal Bimbingan Konseling
Vol. 15 No. 1 (2026): April 2026

The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral group counseling using self-talk techniques to improve self-adjustment in junior high school students

Meista Aditya Efha (universitas negeri semarang)
Mungin Eddy Wibowo (Universitas Negeri Semarang)
Ashari Mahfud (Universitas Negeri Semarang)



Article Info

Publish Date
21 Oct 2026

Abstract

Self-adjustment is an essential developmental competency that enables adolescents to cope with academic demands, emotional challenges, and social transitions. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral group counseling using self-talk techniques in improving self-adjustment among seventh-grade junior high school students. A quantitative approach with a pretest–posttest control-group design was employed, involving 12 students selected through purposive sampling and assigned to experimental and control groups. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann–Whitney U test. The results demonstrated a substantial increase in the experimental group's mean self-adjustment score from 45.83 to 65.33, whereas the control group showed minimal improvement from 49.33 to 49.50. The Wilcoxon test indicated a statistically significant improvement within the experimental group (Z = −2.207, approximately p = .027). These findings suggest that cognitive-behavioral group counseling incorporating self-talk techniques is a promising approach for supporting students' adjustment to academic and social demands. The study highlights the potential application of structured cognitive-behavioral interventions in school counseling, although further research is needed to confirm their comparative effectiveness and long-term outcomes.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jubk

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

JBK publishes original manuscripts relating to the following: school counseling; career counseling; couple, marriage, and family counseling; mental health; counseling supervision; theory development; educational psychology; professional counseling ethics; international counseling and multicultural ...