Efficacy evaluation of an affectionate touch-based psychological intervention program for in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer patients: A controlled trial

Table 1 Affective touch interactive exercise intervention protocol

Level-1 indicator	Level-2 indicator	Level-3 indicator	Content
Tactile actions	Affectionate touch	Hugging, arm around waist or shoulder: Conveying security and intimacy	Explain the categories of affective touch actions to participants, emphasizing their positive effects and significance. Instruct participants to perform daily conscious tactile actions. Perform affectionate touch actions (e.g., hug, kiss) at least once daily upon waking up, before going out, after work, and before sleep. Perform at least one playful touch and/or deep touch action weekly. Log the completion of these actions daily before sleep
	Playful touch	Playful or teasing touches: Light-hearted physical interactions such as patting the head, gentle pinching, or tickling
	Deep touch	Massage: Relieving stress and fatigue through massage to enhance physical and emotional connection
		Sitting/Lying next to the partner with bodies overlapping or touching
		Body exploration: Exploring each other’s bodies with mutual consent to build trust and intimacy
Shared activities	Leisure activities	Engaging in casual conversation or deep, intimate dialogue with the partner	Explain the concept and significance of shared activities to participants. Instruct participants to complete at least one shared activity per week, each lasting no less than 30 minutes. Log the completion of the activity
		Engaging in shared leisure activities or spending time together (e.g., taking a walk, watching a movie)
	Shared responsibilities	Making plans or working (handling affairs) with the partner
		Doing housework together with the partner
Positive acceptance	Verbal expression	Expressing understanding of the partner’s feelings	Explain the concept and significance of positive acceptance to participants. Instruct participants to reflect on and summarize positive interactions with their partner daily and complete a daily behavior log
		Expressing confidence in the partner
		Expressing acceptance or care for the partner
		Complimenting the partner
		Telling the partner positive or good things about him/her
	Action support	Creating convenience for the partner
		Sharing or lightening the partner’s responsibilities
	Emotional support	Showing interest in learning about the partner’s day
		Making the partner feel valued in multiple ways, including but not limited to eye contact, feeling seen/understood, and unconditional understanding