COMPARISON OF VARIOUS PSYCHOLOGICAL HUMAN NEED MODELS WITH SCHEMA THERAPY

Abstract

Background: Several theories have been proposed over the last few decades on identifying various fundamental psychological human needs. These theories were compared to a more recent theory using concepts from a fast growing form of psychotherapy called schema therapy. The empirical basis of the model from schema therapy was provided using Eastern and Western samples. Points of overlapp with the other models and schema therapy were discussed. Subjects and methods: The model of needs from schema therapy was based on work conducted by principal author in 2020 using samples from Eastern (Singapore n=628; Kuala Lumpur, n=229), and Western countries (United States, n=214). Results: Four separate categories consisting of the 14 Early Adaptive Schemas (positive schemas) were identified. Each group or positive schema domain represents a core emotional need that was adequately met, and these four were used as the basis for human psychological need from the vantage point of schema therapy. Conclusion: All models of human needs were examined and compared with one another with special focus on constructs that had overlapped. Some models did not begin with infancy. However, there were definite points of convergence showing support for basic concepts of human psychological needs that were theorized over the last few decades, and its congruence with the model from schema therapy.