Early maladaptive schemas, behavioral inhibition/approach systems, and defense styles in the users of natural and synthetic substances and healthy subjects

Abstract

Factors contributing to abusing various substances may be different. The aim of the present study was to study the comparison of early maladaptive schemas (EMSs), behavioral inhibition system (BIS)/behavioral approach system (BAS), and defense styles among Iranian natural and synthetic substance users at the start of their treatment and healthy subjects in Shiraz, Iran, since July 2014 to September 2015. In a cross-sectional comparative design, 1056 participants including 704 users of natural (n = 352) and synthetic (n = 352) substances (meanage = 29) and healthy subjects (n = 352, meanage = 29) were selected and they completed the demographic questionnaire, Young Maladaptive Schemas Questionnaire-Short Form, Carver & White BIS/BAS scale, and Defense Style Questionnaire. Results revealed that there were significant differences between the natural and synthetic substance users with healthy subjects in EMSs, BIS, BAS subscales, and defense styles. Also, the users of natural substances showed higher means in EMSs, BIS, and immature defense style, while the synthetic substance users earned higher scores on BAS subscales and neurotic defense style, and healthy subjects gained higher scores on mature defense style than natural and synthetic substances. We concluded that there were significant differences among two groups in EMSs, BIS, BAS subscales, and defense styles.