Group schema therapy for eating disorders: a pilot study

STAT: schema therapy for addiction treatment, a proposal for the integrative treatment of addictive disorders

The nature and origins of addictions and of their adjunctive behaviors, as well as their chronicity, call for treatments that conceptualize and treat them as the long-term and complex processes that they are. Addictions are often comorbid with personality problems and with trauma histories. Patients suffering from these disorders often show poor engagement with treatment and high rates of relapse, possibly because available treatments have yet to address the patient suffering from addiction in a more integrated or holistic manner. In particular, comprehensive treatment models for addictive disorders - like treatments for personality disorders or trauma - are likely to require the integration of behavioral, cognitive, and emotion-focused interventions within a facilitative therapeutic relationship. However, most current treatment models, including ones which are highly effective in stabilization or behavioral change, lack one or more components of treatment that could sustain longer term recovery, wellness, and health for a higher percentage of patients. In this article, I propose approaching addictions and their treatment from the perspective of schema therapy, an integrative, developmental model with a strong track record of positive outcomes in addressing personality disorder symptoms and long-standing trauma histories, commonly comorbid with addictive disorders. In advancing this proposal, I begin by providing some background tying together addictions, attachment, and personality, suggesting they be treated simultaneously to achieve improved outcomes. Then, after briefly reviewing the leading approaches to the treatment of addictions, I introduce the idea that schema therapy is well-situated - both theoretically and practically - to address many of the shortcomings of existing treatment options. In particular, I note how addictive and co-occurring colluding behaviors are deeply intertwined with both early and continued frustration of core developmental needs. I illustrate how the addictive cycle is perpetuated through the process of schema reinforcement and through the operation of schema modes. I then demonstrate how these key terms (i.e., needs, schemas, and modes) inform the patient's assessment and case formulation, guiding treatment interventions from a strong therapeutic relationship that focuses on integrating recovery behavior change, healing dysfunctional schemas and modes, and preventing relapse.

Short-term, manualized schema-focused group therapy for patients with CBT-resistant disorders within primary care: a pilot study with a naturalistic pre-treatment and post-treatment design

The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a short-term, manualized schema therapy group for 77 patients with CBT-resistant mood and/or anxiety and/or personality disorders (PDs) in primary care. The primary focus was on the effects of this treatment on Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS), schema modes, and psychological well-being. These aspects were assessed pre-and post-treatment treatment using the Young Schema Questionnaire (YSQ), the Schema Mode Inventory version 1.1 (SMI), and the Symptom Questionnaire-48 (SQ-48). The treatment consisted of 16 sessions, incorporating cognitive, behavioral, and experiential techniques. EMS significantly decreased from pre-treatment to post-treatment, as along with maladaptive schema modes. Adaptive modes increased, as did psychological wellbeing. There were no significant differences between the DSM-5 classifications regarding changes in the aforementioned measures, except for the maladaptive modes, where the value of the corrected within-subject effect indicated a significant interaction. Post hoc comparisons were therefore conducted which showed that patients with a mood disorder experienced more positive changes in maladaptive modes compared to patients with anxiety disorders and PDs (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between those with PDs and those with Anxiety Disorders. Our findings provide preliminary evidence that short-term, manualized schema therapy might be an effective treatment for patients with CBT-resistant mood and/or anxiety and/or PDs in primary care.

Clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and process evaluation of group schema therapy for eating disorders: study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Eating disorders (EDs), such as (atypical) Anorexia (AN) and Bulimia Nervosa (BN), are difficult to treat, causing socioeconomic impediments. Although enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-E) is widely considered clinically effective, it may not be the most beneficial treatment for (atypical) AN and BN patients who do not show a rapid response after the first 4 weeks (8 sessions) of a CBT-E treatment. Alternatively, group schema therapy (GST) may be a valuable treatment for this ED population. Even though GST for EDs has yielded promising preliminary findings, the current body of evidence requires expansion. On top of that, data on cost-effectiveness is lacking. In light of these gaps, we aim to describe a protocol to examine whether GST is more (1) clinically effective and (2) cost-effective than CBT-E for (atypical) AN and BN patients, who do not show a rapid response after the first 4 weeks of treatment. Additionally, we will conduct (3) process evaluations for both treatments.

METHODS

Using a multicenter RCT design, 232 Dutch (atypical) AN and BN patients with a CBT-E referral will be recruited from five treatment centers. Clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness will be measured before treatment, directly after treatment, at 6 and at 12 months follow-up. In order to rate process evaluation, patient experiences and the degree to which treatments are implemented according to protocol will be measured. In order to assess the quality of life and the achievement of personalized goals, interviews will be conducted at the end of treatment. Data will be analyzed, using a regression-based approach to mixed modelling, multivariate sensitivity analyses and coding trees for qualitative data. We hypothesize GST to be superior to CBT-E in terms of clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness for patients who do not show a rapid response to the first 4 weeks of a CBT-E treatment.

DISCUSSION

To our knowledge, this is the first study protocol describing a multicenter RCT to explore the three aforementioned objectives. Related risks in performing the study protocol have been outlined. The expected findings may serve as a guide for healthcare stakeholders to optimize ED care trajectories.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05812950).

Potential applications of Schema Therapy in the treatment of adolescents with anorexia nervosa: a theoretical analysis

Purpose

The main purpose of the article is to present basic theoretical assumptions on Schema Therapy and its hypothetical application among adolescents suffering with anorexia nervosa.

Views

Anorexia nervosa is a very deadly mental disease, more frequently suffered by females than males, with the mean age of onset at approximately 14-15. Studies underline the relatively poor effectiveness of currently applied treatment methods and the need for new approaches that could be recommended for adolescent patients suffering with this disease. The results of studies conducted to date lead to the conclusion that Schema Therapy is a promising approach for this group. It is a transdiagnostic method of work that compiles elements known in other therapeutic approaches, aiming at an increase in the individual's awareness of their feelings and emotional needs, applied both in adolescent and adult groups of patients. Since the symptoms of eating disorders observed in adolescents are strongly connected with family systems it seems reasonable to use treatment techniques that rigorously address the unmet needs and rejected emotions of the individual.

Conclusions

Based on the data published so far it might be hypothesized that the techniques characteristic for Schema Therapy (e.g. imagery rescripting, chairwork, limited reparenting) could be eligible for use with adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa.They address unmet needs, rejected emotions, and early maladaptive schemas that are very frequent in patients with AN. Since the analysis presented provides only hypotheses and the discussion of theoretical aspects, empirical research in this area is needed.

Early Maladaptive Schemas and Schema Modes in clinical disorders: A systematic review

PURPOSE

Although schema therapy has been predominantly applied to treat personality disorders, interest into its application in other clinical disorders is growing. Central to schema therapy are Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS) and Schema Modes. Since existing EMS and Schema Modes were primarily developed in the context of personality disorders, their relevance for clinical disorders is unclear.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of the presence of EMS and Schema Modes in clinical disorders according to DSM criteria. Per disorder, we evaluated which EMS and Schema Modes were more pronounced in comparison with clinical as well as non-clinical control groups and which EMS and Schema Modes were most highly endorsed within the disorder.

RESULTS

Although evidence concerning EMS was scarce for several disorders, and only few studies on Schema Modes survived inclusion criteria, we identified meaningful relationships and patterns for EMS and Schema Modes in various clinical disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

The present review highlights the relevance of EMS and Schema Modes for clinical disorders beyond personality disorders. Depending on the theme of the representation, EMS act as vulnerabilities both across diagnoses and for specific disorders. Thus, EMS and resulting Schema Modes are potential, valuable targets for the prevention and treatment of clinical disorders.

What role do early life experiences play in eating disorders? The impact of parenting style, temperament and early maladaptive schemas

OBJECTIVE

Given that most eating disorders develop in adolescence and early adulthood, early life experiences are said to play a key role in the aetiology of eating disorders. There are well-documented relationships between early maladaptive schemas and eating disorders, early maladaptive schemas and temperament and temperament and perceived parenting style. The present study aimed to test a hypothesis that perceived parenting style predicts temperament, which predicts early maladaptive schemas, which predict eating disorder symptoms in young people.

METHOD

An online survey measured perceived parenting style, temperament, early maladaptive schemas and eating disorder symptoms in 397 people with disordered eating between the ages of 18 and 29. Path analysis was used to investigate the relationship between these elements.

RESULTS

The results found support for this hypothesis. Perceived maladaptive parenting ratings for mothers were a stronger predictor of temperament, and only two temperament factors were adequate predictors of early maladaptive schemas.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the present study found preliminary support for a linear relationship where perceived parenting style predicts temperament, which predicts early maladaptive schema levels, which predicts eating disorder symptoms. The present study was the first to propose and test this model; however, further research is required to confirm the nature and extent of this relationship.

The effectiveness of an online video-based group schema therapy in improvement of the cognitive emotion regulation strategies in women who have undergone bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Adaptive cognitive emotion regulation (CER) strategies toward eating play a very important role in obesity and according to schema therapy, patients with obesity learn that don't respond to their emotional stimuli by eating. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an online video-based group schema therapy in improvement of the CER strategies and body mass index (BMI) in women who had undergone bariatric surgery.

METHODS

Forty women who had undergone sleeve gastrectomy were selected and randomly divided into two groups of control and experimental. The experimental group received 10 weekly 90-min sessions of group schema therapy, the control group did not receive any intervention at all. Both groups completed the CER strategies questionnaire during pre-test, post-test and follow-up stages, and the data were analyzed using a multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) through SPSS software (version 20).

RESULTS

Our results indicated that the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher adaptive CER strategies (P = 0.0001, F = 31.15) and significantly lower maladaptive CER strategies (P = 0.001, F = 9.42), significantly lower BMI (P = 0.001, F = 23.48), as compared to the control condition, following the group schema therapy after the follow-up stage.

CONCLUSION

The findings demonstrated that group schema therapy could lead to an increases in adaptive CER strategies and a decrease in maladaptive CER strategies and BMI in women who had undergone bariatric surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

IRCT, IRCT20180523039802N2. Registered 5 August 2020, http://www.irct.com/IRCT20180523039802N2 .

A Systematic Review of the Heterogeneity of Schema Therapy

We aimed to explore the heterogeneity of schema therapy regarding (a) patient characteristics, (b) content, and (c) way of delivering schema therapy. A search was conducted of the electronic databases EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and COCHRANE up to June 15, 2022. Treatment studies were eligible if they (a) used schema therapy as (component of) the intervention examined, and (b) reported an outcome measure quantitatively. A total of 101 studies met the inclusion criteria, including randomized controlled trials (n = 30), non-randomized controlled trials (n = 8), pre-post designs (n = 22), cases series (n = 13), and case reports (n = 28), including 4006 patients. Good feasibility was consistently reported irrespective of format (group versus individual), setting (outpatient, day-treatment, inpatient), intensity of treatment, and the specific therapeutic components included. Schema therapy was applied to various (psychiatric) disorders. All studies presented promising results. Effectiveness of the different models of schema therapy as well as application beyond personality disorders should be examined more rigorously.

Factor structure of the Young Positive Schema Questionnaire in an eating disorder sample

PURPOSE

The Young Positive Schema Questionnaire (YPSQ) measures early adaptive schemas (EAS) which could be used to develop positive psychology and schema-based interventions to benefit the treatment of eating disorders (EDs).

METHODS

The present study investigated the factor structure of the YPSQ in a sample of 826 participants (18-73 years; n = 753 women) with ED symptomatology (e.g., restricting, binging, and purging). The sample was randomly split into two groups for exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Full sample analysis using Pearson correlations was conducted to explore convergent validity of the new YSPQ factor structure with ED symptomatology, emotional regulation, and cognitive flexibility.

RESULTS

A nine-factor model was found, demonstrating good fit indices and internal consistency (α = 0.77-0.92). The YPSQ showed an inverse relationship to ED symptomatology and emotional suppression, and a positive relationship with cognitive flexibility and emotion reappraisal.

CONCLUSION

Further research is needed to explore the clinical benefits of the YPSQ to identify EAS deficits in individuals with EDs to improve treatment outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, descriptive study.

Exploring the association between early adaptive schemas and self-reported eating disorder symptomatology

OBJECTIVE

The current study aimed to examine the relationship between early adaptive schemas and eating disorder symptomatology in adults.

METHOD

A cross-sectional, correlational design was used to collect data from 352 females and 36 males aged between 18 and 49 years (M = 25.70, SD = 7.04). Participants completed an online questionnaire, which included The Young Positive Schema Questionnaire (YPSQ), Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) and demographic measures.

RESULTS

Four separate hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed that high levels of Healthy Boundaries and low levels of Optimism significantly predicted lower Restraint, Eating Concern, Shape Concern and Weight Concern scores. Additionally, higher scores in Emotional Openness and Social Belonging significantly predicted lower Eating Concern, while higher scores in Self-Care significantly predicted lower levels of Shape Concern.

CONCLUSION

The findings highlight the protective function that certain early adaptive schemas may play in mitigating eating disorder symptomatology. Moreover, the findings allude to potential modifiable therapy targets in the treatment of eating disorders. Further research is needed to investigate any differences in early adaptive schemas between eating disorder diagnoses.

Group Schema Therapy for Reducing Parenting Stress in Families with Children with Disabilities

Parents experience stress that manifests itself as a negative reaction to the situation when the demands of being a parent exceed the expectations of oneself as a parent. Stress level in parents of children with disabilities is significantly higher than in standard families. Schema therapy is an effective psychological intervention for managing this stress. The paper reviews foreign and Russian publications on schema therapy for parents of children with special needs. The comparative analysis showed that schema-therapy approach might have higher efficacy in managing this type of stress than other popular psychotherapeutic approaches, e.g., CBT, MCT, PST, etc. These approaches often focus on teaching specific parenting skills or changing parents' behavior and attitude but leave behind their emotional well-being. Schema therapy develops effective parenting skills and behavioral practices while teaching emotion management strategies. A comprehensive schema therapy program may reduce stress in parents of children with disabilities. 

Group schema therapy for patients with severe anxiety disorders

This article presents an adaptation of group schema therapy (GST) developed for patients with severe anxiety. An anonymized case presentation exemplifies the adaptation. GST was originally developed to treat clients with maladaptive personality traits but has been applied to a variety of disorders in recent years. For patients with severe anxiety, who have not responded to other treatments, GST may be a promising approach. The paper presents the GST model, the evidence supporting it, and its adaptation for the treatment of anxiety. The case presentation illustrates the therapeutic process and GST interventions. Finally, the clinical outcome and the implications for implementing GST are discussed.

Group Imagery Rescripting on Childhood Memories Delivered via Telehealth: A Preliminary Study

BACKGROUND

Imagery Rescripting (ImR) has proved to be effective in the treatment of different mental disorders as an integral part of broader clinical protocols or as a standalone technique. ImR has also been successfully incorporated as part of group Schema Therapy treatment; however, to the best of our knowledge, it has never been assessed as a standalone technique in a group setting.

AIM

In this study, we focused on ImR delivered via telehealth in groups and we aimed to assess whether group ImR is effective in responding to basic emotional needs, in changing participants' affective state, and in reducing dysfunctional beliefs. We also wanted to assess whether memory realism is associated with a greater effectiveness of the technique.

METHODS

A total of 52 participants were presented with 3 ImR sessions on childhood memories related to the current dysfunctional belief that elicited more suffering.

RESULTS

The technique was effective in facilitating the retrieval of a memory in almost the entire sample (in the range of 92.3-100%). Overall, memory realism values (level of vividness, ability to immerse, and participants' distance from the images) were high in all three sessions. Almost all participants were reported having their needs met during ImR (89.7%). Importantly, need satisfaction was associated with the ability to immerse in the image. In addition, the intensity of the dysfunctional belief decreased significantly from pre-test to Session 3. The technique also changed the affective state, reducing arousal. Importantly, we also observed a general reduction in shame levels from the first to the third session.

CONCLUSION

A telehealth delivered ImR group intervention on childhood memories provides cognitive and emotional improvement. Along with the ability to satisfy the patient's basic emotional needs, the technique seems to be effective in modifying maladaptive beliefs encapsulated in memory.

Adapting group schema therapy for older adults with personality disorders: lessons learnt

A first empirical study into group schema therapy in older adults with mood disorders and personality disorder (PD) features has shown that brief group schema therapy has potential to decrease psychological distress and to change early maladaptive schemas (EMS). Effect sizes however were smaller than those found in similar studies in younger adults. Therefore, we set out to adapt the treatment protocol for older adults in order to enhance its feasibility and outcome in this age group. We examined this adapted protocol in 29 older adults (mean age 66 years) with PDs from four Dutch mental health institutes. The primary outcome was symptomatic distress, measured by the Brief Symptom Inventory. Secondary outcomes were measured by the Young Schema Questionnaire, the Schema Mode Inventory, and the short version of the Severity Indices of Personality Problems. Contrary to our expectations, the adapted treatment protocol yielded only a small effect size in our primary outcome, and no significant improvement in EMS, modes and personality functioning. Patients pointed out that they were more aware of their dysfunctional patterns, but maybe they had not been able yet to work on behavioural change due to this schema therapy treatment being too brief. We recommend more intensive treatment for older patients with PDs, as they might benefit from more schema therapy sessions, similar to the treatment dosage in younger PD patients. They might also benefit from a combination of group therapy and individual treatment sessions.

Key learning aims

(1)

A Novel Application of the Schema Therapy Mode Model for Social Anxiety Disorder: A Naturalistic Case Study

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is a condition defined by an excessive and persistent fear of negative evaluation in social or performance situations. Whilst Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is the gold standard treatment, not all individuals with SAD respond to CBT. The Schema Therapy Mode Model is frequently applied to chronic and hard-to-treat conditions and therefore may be applicable for SAD individuals who are non-responders to CBT. This case study describes how the Mode Model was successfully used to treat a woman in her 20s who presented with excessive fears of negative evaluation and pervasive social avoidance. Experiential techniques, such as chair dialogues and imagery rescripting, resulted in cognitive modification of negative core beliefs, reduced experiential discomfort and increased engagement in social and relational activities. This case offers a preliminary indication that the Schema Therapy Mode Model may be an effective treatment for socially anxious individuals and that further theoretical and empirical study in this area is warranted.

A preliminary study of schema therapy for young adults with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder: a single-arm, uncontrolled trial

OBJECTIVE

Psychological problems associated with isolation and mistrust are common among young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Schema therapy (ST) has recently been shown to be effective against chronic personality problems of various mental disorders, including personality disorders. This pilot clinical trial aimed to explore the feasibility and acceptability of ST in young adults with high-functioning ASD.

RESULTS

Following the intervention, a significant reduction in early maladaptive schemas and improvements in quality of life and social adjustment were observed. ST may be feasible and is applicable to young adults with HF-ASD. Trial registration UMIN000014535; registered on July 11, 2014.

Limited reparenting as a corrective emotional experience in schema therapy: A preliminary task analysis

AIM

To construct a process model of limited reparenting as a corrective emotional experience using schema therapy (ST).

METHOD

We followed a task analytical approach, building two separate rational models based on the ST theory and our experience. Then, we constructed a final rational model. We tested our model in five therapy sessions.

RESULTS

The process began with noticing a schema activation, after which a complex, interwoven process occurred involving facilitation and validation of the client's experiences, exploration of schema origins, engaging the client's process, and responding to unmet needs within professional boundaries. The limited reparenting experience in ST involves the use of psychotherapeutic techniques and, crucially, how these techniques are used in line with the ST model deployed.

CONCLUSION

Our results provided a roadmap and clarified the important aspects of limited reparenting. Providing clients with healthy and potentially corrective emotional experiences, facilitating and validating the feelings, understanding schema origins, and being willing to provide limited reparenting are the key features of the ST. It is more important to comprehend the philosophy behind ST than to focus on the specific (cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, experiential, etc.) techniques.

Towards a Reformulated Theory Underlying Schema Therapy: Position Paper of an International Workgroup

Background

A central construct in Schema Therapy (ST) is that of a schema mode, describing the current emotional-cognitive-behavioral state. Initially, 10 modes were described. Over time, with the world-wide increasing and broader application of ST to various disorders, additional schema modes were identified, mainly based on clinical impressions. Thus, the need for a new, theoretically based, cross-cultural taxonomy of modes emerged.

Methods

An international workgroup started from scratch to identify an extensive taxonomy of modes, based on (a) extending the theory underlying ST with new insights on needs, and (b) recent research on ST theory supporting that modes represent combinations of activated schemas and coping.

Results

We propose to add two emotional needs to the original five core needs that theoretically underpin the development of early maladaptive schemas (EMSs), i.e., the need for Self-Coherence, and the need for Fairness, leading to three new EMSs, i.e. Lack of a Coherent Identity, Lack of a Meaningful World, and Unfairness. When rethinking the purpose behind the different ways of coping with EMS-activation, we came up with new labels for two of those: Resignation instead of Surrender, and Inversion instead of Overcompensation. By systematically combining EMSs and ways of coping we derived a set of schema modes that can be empirically tested.

Conclusions

With this project, we hope to contribute to the further development of ST and its application across the world.

Dysfunctional Parenting and Psychological Symptomatology: An Examination of the Mediator Roles of Anger Representations in the Context of the Schema Therapy Model

In this study, we investigated the mediator roles of anger-related schema modes in the relationship between dysfunctional parent modes and psychological symptoms. We focused on specific schema modes (i.e., punitive and demanding parent modes; vulnerable, angry, and enraged child modes; and the angry protector mode). The study included 297 college students (159 women), with the average age of the sample being 19.66 years (SD = 1.53, range = 18 to 29 years). All participants completed self-report questionnaires on schema modes and psychological symptoms, as well as a demographic form. We evaluated two different mediational models to understand two different dysfunctional parenting styles. The results suggest that all variables significantly correlated with each other and almost all the direct paths in the models were significant. However, the mediator analysis revealed that some of the anger-related modes had very low but significant mediator roles in the models (i.e., the angry child mode for both models and the enraged child mode for the demanding parenting model). The vulnerable child mode played a central and key role in the relationship between dysfunctional parenting and psychological symptoms. The study suggests that anger representations might be windows to understand and intervene in unmet core emotional needs.

Positive schemas in schema therapy with older adults: clinical implications and research suggestions

BACKGROUND

Schema therapy is an effective treatment for borderline personality disorder and other complex disorders. Schema therapy is feasible in older adults, and the first empirical support for its effectiveness in later life was provided in older patients with a cluster C personality disorder. The central concept of the schema therapy model is the early maladaptive schema (EMS). Early adaptive schemas (EAS) give rise to adaptive behaviour, and they also emerge during childhood, when core emotional needs are adequately met by primary caregivers.

AIMS

To examine the concept of EAS and its application in schema therapy with older adults.

METHOD

Literature review and case example: the role of EAS in schema therapy with older adults is discussed and suggestions for integrating EAS in schema therapy in later life are proposed.

RESULTS

Directing attention in therapy to EAS may help strengthen the healthy adult mode, and it might also help change a negative life review. Working with positive schemas may be an important avenue for re-awakening positive aspects of patients, reinforcing the therapeutic relationship, creating a positive working atmosphere, and also for facilitating the introduction of experiential schema therapy techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that positive schemas may be important vehicles of therapeutic change when working with older people. There is a need for validating the Young Positive Schema Questionnaire (YPSQ) in older adults, and for examining whether integrating EAS in schema therapy with older adults indeed has a positive effect on therapy outcome.

Factorial Structure and Preliminary Validation of the Schema Mode Inventory for Eating Disorders (SMI-ED)

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties and factorial structure of the Schema Mode Inventory for Eating Disorders (SMI-ED) in a disordered eating population.

Method: 573 participants with disordered eating patterns as measured by the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) completed the 190-item adapted version of the Schema Mode Inventory (SMI). The new SMI-ED was developed by clinicians/researchers specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, through combining items from the original SMI with a set of additional questions specifically representative of the eating disorder population. Psychometric testing included Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and internal consistency (Cronbach's α). Multivariate Analyses of Covariance (MANCOVA) was also run to test statistical differences between the EDE-Q subscales on the SMI-ED modes, while controlling for possible confounding variables.

Results: Factorial analysis confirmed an acceptable 16-related-factors solution for the SMI-ED, thus providing preliminary evidence for the adequate validity of the new measure based on internal structure. Concurrent validity was also established through moderate to high correlations on the modes most relevant to eating disorders with EDE-Q subscales. This study represents the first step in creating a psychometrically sound instrument for measuring schema modes in eating disorders, and provides greater insight into the relevant schema modes within this population.

Conclusion: This research represents an important preliminary step toward understanding and labeling the schema mode model for this clinical group. Findings from the psychometric evaluation of SMI-ED suggest that this is a useful tool which may further assist in the measurement and conceptualization of schema modes in this population.

Group schema therapy for eating disorders: study protocol

BACKGROUND

The treatment of eating disorders is a difficult endeavor, with only a relatively small proportion of clients responding to and completing standard cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Given the prevalence of co-morbidity and complex personality traits in this population, Schema Therapy has been identified as a potentially viable treatment option. A case series of Group Schema Therapy for Eating Disorders (ST-E-g) yielded positive findings and the study protocol outlined in this article aims to extend upon these preliminary findings to evaluate group Schema Therapy for eating disorders in a larger sample (n = 40).

METHODS/DESIGN

Participants undergo a two-hour assessment where they complete a number of standard questionnaires and their diagnostic status is ascertained using the Eating Disorder Examination. Participants then commence treatment, which consists of 25 weekly group sessions lasting for 1.5 h and four individual sessions. Each group consists of five to eight participants and is facilitated by two therapists, at least one of who is a registered psychologist trained on schema therapy. The primary outcome in this study is eating disorder symptom severity. Secondary outcomes include: cognitive schemas, self-objectification, general quality of life, self-compassion, schema mode presentations, and Personality Disorder features. Participants complete psychological measures and questionnaires at pre, post, six-month and 1-year follow-up.

DISCUSSION

This study will expand upon preliminary research into the efficacy of group Schema Therapy for individuals with eating disorders. If group Schema Therapy is shown to reduce eating disorder symptoms, it will hold considerable promise as an intervention option for a group of disorders that is typically difficult to treat.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12615001323516. Registered: 2/12/2015 (retrospectively registered, still recruiting).

Schema therapy for emotional dysregulation in personality disorders: a review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To give an update on the most recent studies regarding the role of schema therapy in the treatment of emotion dysregulation related to personality disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS

In personality disorders, a lack of emotion regulation can be found. Schema therapy treats emotion dysregulation with a series of techniques, such as imagery rescripting, limited reparenting, chairwork, and cognitive restructuring to remove dysregulatory mechanism.

SUMMARY

Schema therapy is one of the most efficient therapies for personality disorders. However, there is a lack of recent studies on how it treats emotion dysregulation. Although the treatment of emotional dysregulation is not the core of schema therapy, it is certainly important inside this theoretical framework. The mode model helps clinicians address their work toward the reduction of dysfunctional modes, whereas fostering functional modes.

Does schema therapy change schemas and symptoms? A systematic review across mental health disorders

PURPOSE

Schema therapy was first applied to individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) over 20 years ago, and more recent work has suggested efficacy across a range of disorders. The present review aimed to systematically synthesize evidence for the efficacy and effectiveness of schema therapy in reducing early maladaptive schema (EMS) and improving symptoms as applied to a range of mental health disorders in adults including BPD, other personality disorders, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

METHODS

Studies were identified through electronic searches (EMBASE, PsycINFO, MEDLINE from 1990 to January 2016).

RESULTS

The search produced 835 titles, of which 12 studies were found to meet inclusion criteria. A significant number of studies of schema therapy treatment were excluded as they failed to include a measure of schema change. The Clinical Trial Assessment Measure was used to rate the methodological quality of studies. Schema change and disorder-specific symptom change was found in 11 of the 12 studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Schema therapy has demonstrated initial significant results in terms of reducing EMS and improving symptoms for personality disorders, but formal mediation analytical studies are lacking and rigorous evidence for other mental health disorders is currently sparse.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

First review to investigate whether schema therapy leads to reduced maladaptive schemas and symptoms across mental health disorders. Limited evidence for schema change with schema therapy in borderline personality disorder (BPD), with only three studies conducting correlational analyses. Evidence for schema and symptom change in other mental health disorders is sparse, and so use of schema therapy for disorders other than BPD should be based on service user/patient preference and clinical expertise and/or that the theoretical underpinnings of schema therapy justify the use of it therapeutically. Further work is needed to develop the evidence base for schema therapy for other disorders.

Observation of Interactions in Adolescent Group Therapy: A Mixed Methods Study

Group psychotherapy is a useful clinical practice for adolescents with mental health issues. Groups typically consist of young people of similar ages but with different personalities, and this results in a complex communication network. The goal of group psychoanalytic psychotherapy is to improve participants' mentalization abilities, facilitating interactions between peers and their therapist in a safe, containing environment. The main aim of this study was to analyze conversation turn-taking between a lead therapist, a co-therapist, and six adolescents over the course of 24 treatment sessions divided into four blocks over 8 months. We employed a mixed-methods design based on systematic observation, which we consider to be a mixed method itself, as the qualitative data collected in the initial observation phase is transformed into quantitative data and subsequently interpreted qualitatively with the aid of clinical vignettes. The observational methodology design was nomothetic, follow-up, and multidimensional. The choice of methodology is justified as we used an ad-hoc observation instrument combining a field format and a category system. Interobserver agreement was analyzed quantitatively by Cohen's kappa using the free QSEQ5 software program. Once we had confirmed the reliability of the data, these were analyzed by polar coordinate analysis, which is a powerful data reduction technique that provides a vector representation of relationships between categories. The results show significant relationships between the therapist and (1) the activation of turn-taking by the participants and the co-therapist and silence and (2) conversation-facilitating interventions and interventions designed to improve mentalization abilities. Detailed analysis of questions demonstrating interest in others showed how the communication changed from radial interactions stemming from the therapist at the beginning of therapy to circular interactions half way through. Repetition was found to be a powerful conversation facilitator. The results also illustrate the role of the therapist, who (1) did not facilitate interventions by all participants equally, (2) encouraged turn-taking from more inhibited members of the group, (3) stimulated conversation from the early stages of therapy, and (4) favored mentalization toward the end. Despite its complexity, polar coordinate analysis produces easy-to-interpret results in the form of vector maps.

Do dysfunctional coping modes mediate the relationship between perceived parenting style and disordered eating behaviours?

BACKGROUND

Preliminary studies suggest that both childhood experiences and coping behaviours may be linked to eating disorder symptoms.

METHODS

In this study maladaptive schema coping modes were investigated as mediators in the relationship between perceived negative parenting and disordered eating. A total of 174 adults with eating and/or body image concerns completed questionnaires measuring parenting experiences, schema modes, and disordered eating behaviours.

RESULTS

Perfectionistic Overcontroller, Self-Aggrandiser, Compliant Surrenderer, Detached Protector and Detached Self-Soother coping modes partially explained the variance in the relationships between perceived negative parenting experiences and the behaviours of restricting and compensation (purging and overexercising).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that Overcompensatory, Avoidant and Surrender coping mechanisms all appear to play a role in the maintenance of eating disorder symptoms, and that there are multiple complex relationships between these and Early Maladaptive Schemas that warrant further investigation.

An Integrative Bio-Psycho-Social Theory of Anorexia Nervosa

The need for novel approaches to understanding and treating anorexia nervosa (AN) is well recognized. The aim of this paper is to describe an integrative bio-psycho-social theory of maintaining factors in AN. We took a triangulation approach to develop a clinically relevant theory with face validity and internal consistency. We developed theoretical ideas from our clinical practice and reviewed theoretical ideas within the eating disorders and wider bio-psycho-social literature. The synthesis of these ideas and concepts into a clinically meaningful framework is described here. We suggest eight key factors central to understanding the maintenance and treatment resistance of anorexia nervosa: genetic or experiential predisposing factors; dysfunctional feelings processing and regulation systems; excessive vulnerable feelings; 'feared self' beliefs; starvation as a maladaptive physiological feelings regulation mechanism; maladaptive psychological coping modes; maladaptive social behaviour; and unmet physical and psychological core needs. Each of these factors serves to maintain the disorder. The concept of universal physical and psychological core needs can provide an underpinning integrative framework for working with this distinctly physical and psychological disorder. This framework could be used within any treatment model. We suggest that treatments which help address the profound lack of trust, emotional security and self-acceptance in this patient group will in turn address unmet needs and improve well-being. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

KEY PRACTITIONER MESSAGE

The concept of unmet physical and psychological needs can be used as an underlying integrative framework for understanding and working with this patient group, alongside any treatment model. A functional understanding of the neuro-biological, physiological and psychological mechanisms involved in anorexia nervosa can help patients reduce self-criticism and shame. Fears about being or becoming fat, greedy, needy, selfish and unacceptable ('Feared Self') drive over-compensatory self-depriving behaviour ('Anorexic Self'). Psychological treatment for anorexia nervosa should emphasize a focus on feelings and fostering experiences of acceptance and trust. Treatment for patients with anorexia nervosa needs to be longer than current clinical practice.

Emotion Regulation in Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Schema therapy (ST) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) have both shown to be effective treatment methods especially for borderline personality disorder. Both, ST and DBT, have their roots in cognitive behavioral therapy and aim at helping patient to deal with emotional dysregulation. However, there are major differences in the terminology, explanatory models and techniques used in the both methods. This article gives an overview of the major therapeutic techniques used in ST and DBT with respect to emotion regulation and systematically puts them in the context of James Gross' process model of emotion regulation. Similarities and differences of the two methods are highlighted and illustrated with a case example. A core difference of the two approaches is that DBT directly focusses on the acquisition of emotion regulation skills, whereas ST does seldom address emotion regulation directly. All DBT-modules (mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness) are intended to improve emotion regulation skills and patients are encouraged to train these skills on a regular basis. DBT assumes that improved skills and skills use will result in better emotion regulation. In ST problems in emotion regulation are seen as a consequence of adverse early experiences (e.g., lack of safe attachment, childhood abuse or emotional neglect). These negative experiences have led to unprocessed psychological traumas and fear of emotions and result in attempts to avoid emotions and dysfunctional meta-cognitive schemas about the meaning of emotions. ST assumes that when these underlying problems are addressed, emotion regulation improves. Major ST techniques for trauma processing, emotional avoidance and dysregulation are limited reparenting, empathic confrontation and experiential techniques like chair dialogs and imagery rescripting.

[Schema therapy with children and adolescents – a conceptual and evidence-based overview]

The paper highlights the essential pillars of schema therapy as well as outlining the basic concepts of early maladaptive schemas, domains, emotional core needs, and the mode model. We present an overview of the important features of the schema therapy and look at the special schematic therapeutic relationship work, thereby focusing on emotional processes, needs-oriented biography work, age-appropriate psycho-education, and schema coaching for parents. Clinical recommendations are given based on the recent evidence.

The relationship between early maladaptive schemas and eating-disorder symptomatology among individuals seeking treatment for substance dependence

Numerous studies have examined early maladaptive schemas (EMS) and their relationship to psychological disorders, including eating disorders (EDs) and substance use disorders (SUDs). However, to date, there are no empirical investigations that have examined the relationship between EMS and EDs among individuals seeking treatment for substance use. In an attempt to further elucidate this relationship, the purpose of the current, exploratory study was to examine the relationship between EMS, ED symptomatology (i.e., bulimia and binge-eating but not anorexia), and substance use and to directly compare EMS among individuals with and without a probable ED diagnosis. Participants were 387 men and 132 women seeking residential treatment for substance use. Results demonstrated that 11 of the 18 EMS were significantly associated with ED. Moreover, patients with a probable ED scored significantly higher than patients without a probable ED on 8 of the 18 EMS. Results suggest that EMS are prevalent among individuals with ED pathology seeking treatment for substance use. Thus treatment programs could potentially benefit from the assessment and treatment of EMS among dually-diagnosed patients. Given the exploratory and preliminary nature of the study, continued research is needed to further examine the relationship between EMS, EDs, and substance use.

Short-term group schema therapy for mixed personality disorders: a pilot study

Schema Therapy has shown promising results for personality disorders but there is a limited evidence base for group schema therapy (ST-g) with mixed personality disorders. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of ST-g in a sample of eight participants with mixed personality disorders (with a predominant diagnosis of avoidant personality disorder) and high levels of comorbidity. Treatment was comprised of 20 sessions which included cognitive, behavioral, and experiential techniques. Specific schema-based strategies were chosen for a diagnostically mixed group of personality disorder clients. Six participants attended until end of treatment and two dropped-out before mid-treatment. All outcome measures showed changes with large effect sizes in avoidant personality disorder symptom severity, depression and anxiety levels between pre-therapy and follow-up. Four participants achieved a loss of personality disorder diagnosis at the end of therapy. By follow-up, five participants had achieved a loss of diagnosis, suggesting that participants derived ongoing benefits from the group even after treatment ended. Six participants no longer met criteria for depression at the end of treatment and this was maintained for all participants at 6-month follow-up. At follow-up, the majority of participants showed clinically significant change on the Global Symptom Index (GSI). For the Schema Mode Inventory (SMI) maladaptive modes, the majority of participants showed improvement at follow-up. At follow-up, 40% of participants showed clinically significant change on the SMI adaptive modes. Qualitative feedback indicates that the group helps to normalize participants' psychological experiences and difficulties and promotes self-expression and self-disclosure, while reducing inhibition. Preliminary results suggest that short-term ST-g may benefit those with mixed personality disorders, but generalizability is limited by the small sample size and lack of control group.

Schema modes in eating disorders compared to a community sample

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to examine the association between eating disorders (ED) and schema modes, and identify which specific schema modes are associated with particular eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN) and other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED).

METHODS

A total of forty seven women with eating disorders and 89 women from the community participated in this study. Eating disorder diagnosis was determined by a clinician treating the eating disorder and was confirmed on the basis of Body Mass Index (BMI) and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). The Schema Mode Inventory (SMI) was used to explore the association between schema modes and eating disorder diagnostic status.

RESULTS

A series t-tests revealed that when compared to the community sample, the ED group scored significantly higher on 10 out of 12 maladaptive schema modes, and significantly lower on both adaptive schema modes. A series of planned contrasts revealed that the AN, BN, and OSFED groups each scored significantly higher than the community sample group in the majority of maladaptive schema modes, with slight variations between groups. Further, AN, BN, and OSFED groups each scored significantly lower than the community sample group for the two SMI scores categorized as adaptive. All Cohen's d that reached significance ranged 0.55-2.24.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study shows a tendency for females with eating disorders to rely on maladaptive schema modes more frequently, and more adaptive schema modes less frequently compared to a community sample. These findings provide initial empirical support for a schema mode model of eating disorders.

Positive core beliefs and their relationship to eating disorder symptoms in women

Positive core beliefs, compared with negative self or negative core beliefs, are relatively neglected in the eating disorder (ED) research literature, despite their significance in treatment. Using a sample of younger women and relevant to those who typically experience EDs, this study outlines a new measure of positive core beliefs and examines its psychometric properties. On the basis of factor analysis, two subscales were developed: positive social self beliefs and positive individual self beliefs. The measure had good internal consistency and good construct validity. Positive individual self beliefs predicted low levels of ED symptoms when confounds were controlled. Positive social self beliefs predicted low levels of depressive symptoms, when confounds were controlled. Positive core beliefs would benefit from further study in subclinical and clinical ED groups of younger women.

Schema-Focused Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder and Personality Disorder

This is a single case study of a college age male with major depressive disorder and personality disorder not otherwise specified (NOS). The patient endorsed feelings of sadness, worthlessness, inattention, isolation, and suicidal and homicidal ideation. In addition, the patient endorsed inflexible and pervasive behavioral patterns such as paranoia, isolation, and narcissism. Treatment consisted of schema therapy, with an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship (limited reparenting). The patient completed Young’s Schema Questionnaire (YSQ) prior to initiating treatment and again following treatment. Schemas endorsed at moderate to high levels include Failure, Enmeshment, Abandonment, Emotional Deprivation, Punitiveness, Negativity/Pessimism, and Social Isolation. Following 68 weeks of schema therapy, the patient endorsed all 18 schemas at a “low” level. In addition, whether these findings demonstrated clinically significant change was examined. Results indicate that four out of seven of the patient’s endorsed schemas demonstrated clinically significant change (Emotional Deprivation, Punitiveness, Negativity/Pessimism, and Social Isolation).

Changes in symptom severity, schemas and modes in heterogeneous psychiatric patient groups following short-term schema cognitive-behavioural group therapy: a naturalistic pre-treatment and post-treatment design in an outpatient clinic

Schema therapy has proven to be an effective treatment for patients with borderline personality disorder. However, little is known of its merits in other psychiatric (personality) disorders.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated whether schema therapy in a group setting (group schema cognitive-behavioural therapy [SCBT-g]) was associated with changes in symptom and schema and mode severity. Furthermore, the aim was to search for baseline predictors and possible mediators of treatment outcome.

DESIGN AND METHOD

Sixty-three heterogeneous psychiatric outpatients who attended the SCBT-g were included as participants. In this naturalistic pre-treatment and post-treatment design, data were available on the Symptom Checklist 90, the Schema Questionnaire and the Young-Atkinson Mode Inventory.

RESULTS

All outcome measurements showed changes with moderate to high effect sizes, with 53.2% of the patients showing a significant reduction in severity of psychiatric symptoms and schemas and modes. Higher pre-treatment levels of the schema domain Other Directedness predicted greater symptom reduction. Pre-treatment to mid-treatment changes in schema severity predicted subsequent symptom improvement, but change in symptoms and schemas proved to be strongly correlated.

CONCLUSIONS

In this naturalistic study, SCBT-g was associated with reduced symptom and schema and mode severity in more than half of the psychiatric outpatients. Furthermore, the results suggest that changes in schemas and symptomatology mutually reinforce each other.

KEY PRACTITIONER MESSAGE

Over 50% of ambulatory patients show clinical improvement after treatment in a short-term schema therapy group. Other Directedness seems to be a predictor of schema group therapy success. More randomized controlled trial studies and prediction and mediation studies on (short-term) schema group therapy are sorely needed.

A systematic review of the evidence base for Schema Therapy

Schema Therapy is becoming an increasingly popular psychological model for working with individuals who have a variety of mental health and personality difficulties. The aim of this review is to look at the current evidence base for Schema Therapy and highlight directions for further research. A systematic search of the literature was conducted up until January 2011. All studies that had clinically tested the efficacy of Schema Therapy as described by Jeffrey Young (1994 and 2003) were considered. These studies underwent detailed quality assessments based on Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN-50) culminating in 12 studies being included in the review. The culminative message (both from the popularity of this model and the medium-to-large effect sizes) is of a theory that has already demonstrated clinically effective outcomes in a small number of studies and that would benefit from ongoing research and development with complex client groups. It is imperative that psychological practice be guided by high-quality research that demonstrates efficacious, evidence-based interventions. It is therefore recommended that researchers and clinicians working with Schema Therapy seek to build on these positive outcomes and further demonstrate the clinical effectiveness of this model through ongoing research.