The present research aimed at determining the mediating role of self-compassion in the relationship between early maladaptive schemas and craving in substance-dependent individuals under methadone maintenance treatment.

This research was descriptive-correlational of structural equation modeling type. Among the substance-dependent individuals under methadone treatment referring to addiction treatment centers in the city of Shahrood, 250 people were selected according to the exclusion and inclusion criteria through the convenience sampling method. The tools used in this research included the craving questionnaire, the early maladaptive schemas questionnaire, and the self-compassion scale. To analyze the research model, the structural equation modeling using AMOS-24 software was used.

The findings showed that early maladaptive schemas directly and significantly affected craving, and self-compassion had a significant mediating role in the relationship between early maladaptive schemas and craving. Overall, the results showed that the model had a good fit.

The obtained results show that the individuals at risk of relapse had early maladaptive schemas, and considering that these schemas are formed in the early years of life and play a major role in individuals’ vulnerability, it is recommended that maladaptive schemas be paid attention to in planning preventive methods and also in treatment programs for substance-dependent individuals. Therefore, both variables of early maladaptive schemas and self-compassion play an important role in craving. Thus, paying attention to these variables is of particular importance in reducing craving.