Comparison of maladaptive early schemas and avoidance behaviors in opioid dependent men and non-dependent men

The aim of this study was to examine early maladaptive schemas and avoidance coping behaviors in men with opioid dependence and to compare these schemas and behaviors with non-dependent men. The method of the study was Causal-comprative (Expost facto). Out of 187 clients of three Addiction Recovery Centers, who received diagnosis of substance dependence, 56 patients were selected randomly, and were compared with 56 non-dependent men in terms of Early maladaptive schemas and avoidance coping behaviors. Schemas were assessed using the short form of the Young Schema Questionnaire, 2005 and the avoidance coping behaviors were assessed using Young-Rygh’s Avoidance Inventory, 1994. Results of multivariate analysis of variance showed that schemas differed significantly between opioid addicts and non- addicts, and chi-squared tests showed that avoidance strategies were more common in opioid addicts. Early maladaptive schemas may increase risk for substance abuse. Also, Avoidance coping behaviors are more common in opioid addicts than non- addicts. It is argued that since these behaviors are considered to be maladaptive ways of coping with difficulties, interventions techniques should aim to change these behaviors so that early maladaptive schemas would not be reinforced and the addict could be helped to change these schemas.