Schema Bias
Core beliefs (schemas) are self-sustaining. They act to 'attract' confirmatory evidence and 'repel' or 'distort' disconfirmatory evidence. This information handout visually explains the operation of schema maintenance.
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Description
In the cognitive behavioral model cognition is typically addressed at three levels: automatic thoughts, conditional assumptions, and core beliefs (schemas). Some therapists talk about the mind trying to attain a state of equilibrium - it doesn't like change. To this end, core beliefs can be resistant to change – they can bias the way information in perceived. Schema Bias is a CBT worksheet graphically illustrating how core beliefs (schemas) are maintained. It can be used to help clients understand about how their mind can shape and distort information prior to the use of schema-change interventions.Instructions
This is a Psychology Tools information handout. Suggested uses include:- Client handout - use as a psychoeducation resource
- Discussion point - use to provoke a discussion and explore client beliefs
- Therapist learning tool - improve your familiarity with a psychological construct
- Teaching resource - use as a learning tool during training
References
- Padesky, C. (1991). Schema as self-prejudice. International Cognitive Therapy Newsletter, 6, 6-7.