Schema theory and schema therapy in mood and anxiety disorders: A review

Title

Schema theory and schema therapy in mood and anxiety disorders: A review

Reference

Hawke, L. D., & Provencher, M. D. (2011). Schema theory and schema therapy in mood and anxiety disorders: A review. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, 25(4), 257-276.

Abstract

Schema theory was developed for patients with chronic psychological problems who fail to make significant gains in cognitive therapy. Although the theory has been applied most frequently to personality disorders, mood and anxiety disorders may also be a relevant application. This article reviews the literature applying schema theory to mood and anxiety disorders. The literature suggests that people with mood and anxiety disorders present high levels of early maladaptive schemas, some of which would appear to reflect the characteristics of the individual disorders. Preliminary research suggests that schema therapy may be successfully extended to mood and anxiety disorders. Further research is necessary to examine the utility of schema therapy for these clienteles and to identify the individuals who stand to benefit most. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)

Keywords

cognitive schemas; schema therapy; mood disorders; anxiety disorders; literature review

Country

Canada

Study focus

Early maladaptive schemas

Study design

Narrative review