EXAMINING THE PATHWAY FROM EARLY MALADAPTIVE SCHEMAS TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOR

Abstract

The Antisocial behavior (ASB) is one of the most serious, problematic and challenging concerns for parents, teachers, and law enforcement institutions because people with this behavior have the tendency to get involved in different minor and major crimes, and their behavior is disruptive or society. The aim of current research was to investigate the association between early maladaptive schemas (EMS) and development of ASB in adult offenders. A total 100 male prison inmates aged between 18 to 30 years were purposively recruited. The ASB and EMS were measured using antisocial behavior scale (short form) and young schema questionnaire (short form). Both scales were administered on offenders involved in the minor offenses after taking their consent. The Pearson’s product moment correlation and regression analysis indicated a significant positive association between EMS & ASB. The results provide significant outcomes in reaching desired conclusions and making decisions. Considering the study findings, a comprehensive framework may be formed to create awareness among the parents, teachers, as well as law enforcement personals regarding the increased ASB linked with their higher level of EMS.