Fundamentals of Mental Health

Fundamentals of Mental Health

Comparing the relationship between early maladaptive schemas, defense mechanisms and type D personality among individuals with secure and insecure attachment style

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Shiva Nasirzadeh 1
Adis Keraskian 2
1 MA. in clinical psychology, Branch of Karaj, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Karaj, Iran
2 Assistant professor of Psychology, Branch of Karaj, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
10.22038/jfmh.2017.8496
Abstract
Introduction: Attachment styles determine the emotional, cognitive rules and strategies that guide emotional reactions in people and interpersonal relationships. The primary aim of the current study was to compare the relationship between early maladaptive schemas, defense mechanisms and type D personality among individuals with secure and insecure attachment style.
 Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of 240 patients that were selected by convenience sampling method from psychology clinic Delphi in Tehran in 2013. Data collection tools include the (DSQ-40), Adult Attachment Style (AAS), Type D Personality Questionnaire and primary schemas Questionnaire. Data analyzed through Pearson correlation and multiple regressions.
 Results: The findings showed that the relationship between primary schemas and defense mechanisms are different in people with secure and insecure attachment. Also, the relationship between primary schemas and type D personality is different in people with secure and insecure attachment styles. In addition, the relationship between defense mechanisms and the type D personality is different in people with secure and insecure attachment styles (P<0.01).
Conclusion: Considering the importance of attachment in development of early maladaptive schemas and effects of early maladaptive schemas and defense mechanism on personality pathology, attention to cognitive functions and attachment can help the healing process.
Keywords
attachment
Defense mechanisms
Schema
Type D personality
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Fundamentals of Mental Health
Volume 19, Issue 2
March and April 2017
Pages 96-104