The relationship between early maladaptive schemas and attachment

Abstract

The conceptual model of schema therapy proposes that the unfulfilled need for secure attachments in childhood might lead to the development of Early Maladaptive Schemas. Yet to this day, there have been very few studies examining the relationships between Early Maladaprive Schemas, schema domains and different dimensions of attachment, as well as attachment styles. The objective of the present study was to review the findings from published studies regarding the relationship between Early Maladaptive Schemas and attachment. Thierteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings point to the significant role of the Abandonment schema and the Disconnection/rejection schema domain when it comes to attachment.