Digital Tool

Subjugation

Explore the subjugation schema - a longstanding pattern where people feel they have to give up their needs, preferences, and opinions because they fear negative consequences, such as criticism, rejection, punishment, being left alone, or retaliation.

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Psychology Tools resource: Subjugation

Subjugation

Early maladaptive schemas (or 'schemas' for short) are negative themes or patterns in our thoughts and feelings that persist throughout our lives. This tool will introduce you to the subjugation schema.

Overview

The Subjugation information handout is part of the Psychology Tools Schema series, designed to aid clients and therapists in effectively working with early maladaptive schemas (EMS). This resource explores the subjugation schema, which arises when individuals submit to others because they fear the consequences of expressing their rights and feelings (e.g., criticism, rejection, punishment, abandonment, or retaliation). At the same time, they tend to view their needs, opinions, and desires as comparatively less important or valid. As a result, they often feel controlled and subservient in their relationships.

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