Early Maladaptive Schemas and Interpersonal Problems in Iranian University Students

In recent years, interpersonal relationships have become more complex and increasing number of people suffers from seclusion and loneliness. Early maladaptive schemas (EMSs), important cognitive structures, are expected to have a profound effect on interpersonal relationships. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between EMSs and interpersonal problems among university students. This study was a cross-sectional correlational study. A total of 150 female students selected using snowball sampling method out of Rasht universities and completed the Short Form of Young Schema Questionnaire (SF-YSQ) and the 64-item Inventory of Interpersonal Problems (IIP-32). For data analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient test and stepwise regression were administered. SPSS-20 was used for statistical analysis. Results showed positive significant correlations between EMSs’ domains, especially the domains of disconnection/rejection and impaired autonomy and performance with interpersonal problems. Given the important role of EMSs in interpersonal relationships, and the significant role of interpersonal relationships in psychological adjustment, further investigations on this field seem necessary.