The study of effectiveness of Schema Therapy in Reducing the Activity of the Early Maladaptive Schema in Women with Social Anxiety Disorder

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of schema therapy in decreasing the maladaptive schemas of women with social anxiety disorder. The research method was a single-case experimental design with multiple baselines. Five patients were selected using purpose sampling method. They attended in 20 sessions of therapy individually according to Young's schema therapy model. The instruments used in this study were tests of social anxiety and Young Schema Questionnaire (YSQ: long form). The improved diagnostic method and clinical significance were used for analyzing the data. The results showed that Young's schema therapy model reduced the activity of the early maladaptive schemas significantly in all areas of schemas. The results of follow-up showed the treatment had been persistent and effective. The Young's schema therapy model can be used for the treatment of chronic mental disorders that early maladaptive schemas play a primarily role in their persistance.