Early maladaptive schemas as discriminators of differential attitudes toward substance use among individuals with cluster A, B, and C personality

Abstract

Background: Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMSs), personality traits, and substance use exhibit intricate associations. EMSs could potentially serve as vulnerability factors for substance use and personality disorders. However, there is a paucity of research examining how these schemas influence attitudes toward SU in individuals with different personality clusters. Aim: To investigate the association of EMSs with substance use and attitudes toward substance use among youth. Also, to identify the EMSs those play a pivotal role in classifying individuals with different attitudes toward substance use. Method: A total of 155 participants were selected using an incidental sampling method. CAGE-AID. Drug Attitude Scale, Young’s Schema Questionnaire, and MCMI-III were used to measure study variables. Results: EMSs were found to be significantly associated with CAGE-AID score and attitudes toward substance use among individuals with diverse personality traits. “Fear of losing control,” “Emotional constriction,” and “Punitiveness self-directed” schemas emerged as the most influential predictors differentiating positive, neutral, and negative attitudes toward substance use among individuals with Cluster A, B, and C personality traits, respectively. Those with negativity/pessimism, enmeshment, and subjugation EMSs are more likely to engage in substance use. Conclusion: EMSs play a crucial role in developing a positive attitude toward substance use. © 2023 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.