Schemas

You already know that the ideas we have about ourselves influence how we interpret things that happen to us.

A set of ideas that we have about a person, place, or situation (including ourselves) is called a schema. 

For example, most people have a "library schema" that includes the following ideas: Books, being quiet, reading, and studying. 

Let's look at another example.

A self-schema is a word that describes a set of ideas and perceptions you hold about yourself. 

Self-schemas can be positive or negative. For example, if you believe that you are a hardworking person who always does their best, this is a positive self-schema.

Unfortunately, some self-schemas are harmful. This is because when you believe negative things about yourself, it makes you more self-critical. 

Schemas are formed early in life. Our experiences and relationships shape how we see ourselves.

For example, if our parents criticise us from a young age, we are likely to grow up thinking that we are always deficient in some way. Self-schemas usually carry over into adulthood.

The short answer is - very!

Your self-schemas dictate your outlook on life. They determine what you do, how you feel, and the relationships you have with others.

For example, if you view yourself as an unlovable person who is at constant risk of abandonment, you won't feel secure in your relationships.

Fortunately, you don't have to live with your negative self-schemas. You can learn to identify them and change your beliefs.

This course will help you spot the most common negative self-schemas that are linked with self-criticism, and tell you how to overcome them.