Correlation between Attachment Styles and Early Maladaptive Schemas in Students

Background and Objectives: The mentality of individuals consists of schemas that include memories, problem-solving methods, mental and verbal imagery, and is a coherent system consisting of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral components. This study was performed aiming at investigating and comparison of correlation between early maladaptive schemas and attachment styles in male and female university students. Method: This study was conducted as a descriptive correlational study on the students of Qom University of Medical Sciences. A total of 120 students (60 males and 60 females), were selected using convenience sampling method. Research tools included Young Schema Questionnaire-Short Form and Collins and Read Attachment Styles Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and independent t-test. Results: The participants of both genders obtained the highest score in ambivalent attachment style, whereas there was no difference between the two genders in attachment styles. Insufficient self-control/self-discipline was the only schema that was different between the two genders (p=0.025). There was a significant correlation between ambivalent and avoidant attachment style and all domains of early maladaptive schemas. Also, there was a significant positive correlation between secure attachment style and the strict schema in females. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, there was a significant correlation between insecure attachment style (ambivalent and avoidant) and most of the early maladaptive schemas.