Interpersonal schemas are emotionally-charged beliefs formed in the context of important relationships throughout life. Interpersonal schemas reflect ideas and feelings about the self and others and how relationships between self and others should or will play out.
People’s expectations about relationships can lead them to behave in ways to prepare for the imagined outcomes. Interpersonal schemas can be self-fulfilling even though the result is one that the client does not want.
Individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma tend to have negative expectations in relationships and a limited and rigid repertoire of interpersonal schemas. Their narrow view of relationships limits their options about possible ways to interact with people.
It is very important that information about interpersonal schemas be understandable and relevant to the client. Make sure that you’re familiar with the basic principles of interpersonal schemas theory prior to initiating Session Five with your clients. Refer to the handouts Interpersonal Schemas, Trauma, and Military Service and What are Interpersonal Schemas, and the Therapist Script: What are Interpersonal Schemas? located under the Session Materials button of the course.