Investigating the Relationship Between Early Maladaptive Schemas, Secure Attachment Style, and Self-Compassion Among Women Referring to Counseling and Psychological Service Centers

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Self-compassion is considered a key psychological construct associated with emotional adjustment, resilience, and psychological well-being. Given the potential influence of early maladaptive schemas and secure attachment on individuals’ perceptions of themselves, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between early maladaptive schemas, secure attachment style, and self-compassion among women attending counseling and psychological service centers in Tonkabon.

Methodology: This descriptive-correlational study was conducted among women who attended counseling and psychological service centers in Tonkabon during the first six months of 2025. A total of 185 participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Young Early Maladaptive Schema Questionnaire–Short Form, Hazan and Shaver’s Adult Attachment Questionnaire, and Neff’s Self-Compassion Scale. Pearson correlation coefficients and stepwise regression analyses were employed using SPSS software.

Findings: The results revealed significant negative correlations between self-compassion and the schema domains of disconnection/rejection (r=-0.342), impaired autonomy and performance (r=-0.364), impaired limits (r=-0.293), other-directedness (r=-0.307), and over-vigilance (r=-0.310) (P<0.01). A significant positive relationship was found between secure attachment and self-compassion (r=0.402, P<0.01). Stepwise regression analysis demonstrated that secure attachment (β=0.313), impaired autonomy and performance (β=-0.244), over-vigilance (β=-0.228), and disconnection/rejection (β=-0.209) significantly predicted self-compassion, with the final regression model reaching statistical significance (P<0.001).

Conclusion: The findings suggest that lower levels of maladaptive schemas and higher levels of secure attachment are associated with greater self-compassion. Interventions aimed at modifying maladaptive schemas and strengthening secure attachment patterns may contribute to enhancing self-compassion and promoting psychological well-being among women seeking psychological services.