Schema

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A schema is an interconnected collection of information, thoughts, and behaviours associated with certain situations. Schemas may include social roles, behavioural scripts, modes, and other learned response patterns. They are developed through experience and are often activated in a subconscious manner to appropriately react to given circumstances. Behavioural script specifically can be described as a sequence of thoughts or actions that is executed in an automated fashion. Behavioural scripts are not deliberately acted on, but are not involuntary, instead running subconsciously unless actively interrupted.

Schema therapy focuses on maladaptive modes and schemas, especially in the context of adverse childhood experiences and personality disorders. Schemas may also be viewed in a dissociative context, and as such may be seen as a spectrum from varying roles in singlets (like a "work self" that is not a separate identity), over facets and parts in BPD, to headmates in multiple systems.

Related Terms
Schema types may, for some systems, provide general member archetypes.

Schema therapy is distinct from IFS.