Aspects of Attachment in Relation to Early Maladaptive Schemas in Children Residing in Child Care Facilities

This study examines the relationship between attachment styles and early maladaptive schemas (EMS) in 66 children aged 8–18 living in institutional care in Greece. Attachment was evaluated using three methods: (1) self-reports on peer relationships through the Attachment Questionnaire for Children, (2) therapist evaluations of parental attachment via Attachment Style Prototypes and (3) self-reports on caregiver relationships using the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale–Revised Child version. Using a multimethod approach—including self- and therapist-reported measures—findings revealed that insecure attachment, particularly avoidant patterns with caregivers, was strongly associated with EMS in the Disconnection/Rejection domain. The analysis revealed notably elevated EMS scores, most prominently in Vulnerability to Harm, Unrelenting Standards, Emotional Inhibition and Self-Sacrifice. Among the assessed attachment patterns, avoidant attachment to caregivers emerged as more prevalent than anxiety-based attachment. In contrast, secure attachment was most frequently reported in peer relationships, whereas therapist evaluations of parental attachment indicated a predominance of preoccupied and disorganised styles. Notably, avoidant attachment was strongly associated with specific schemas, such as Emotional Deprivation and Self-Sacrifice. Significant variations in EMS were identified across attachment styles, with avoidant children displaying more pronounced maladaptive patterns. The findings underscore the imperative of fostering secure attachment within institutional care environments and support the implementation of targeted interventions aimed at mitigating attachment-related difficulties and preventing the emergence of EMS in this high-risk population.