Schema therapy in partially sighted individuals with a focus on social isolation and self-esteem: an interventional study

Abstract

Abstract Background Visual impairment can lead to low self-esteem and social isolation for partially sighted individuals. Schema therapy offers a systematic approach to identifying and modifying maladaptive schemas formed in the past. This therapy has proven effective in treating mental disorders and preventing their recurrence. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of schema therapy in addressing social isolation and enhancing self-esteem among partially sighted individuals. Methods This interventional study involved 66 partially sighted individuals who referred to Tavangaran Institute in Shiraz, southwestern Iran. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: an intervention group (n = 33) and a control group (n = 33). The intervention group received eight sessions of schema therapy over four weeks, with two sessions per week. Data were collected from both groups using the University of California at Los Angeles Loneliness Scale and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale at three time points: before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and one month post-intervention. Results Mean social isolation scores in the intervention group decreased significantly from 65.03 ± 2.76 before the intervention to 35.93 ± 2.80 immediately after the intervention, and 38.36 ± 3.19 one month later (p < 0.001). Additionally, mean self-esteem scores increased significantly from 13.27 ± 1.27 to 22.30 ± 2.24 immediately after the intervention and 20.75 ± 2.43 one month after the intervention (p < 0.001). These post-intervention scores were significantly higher than that in the control group (p-value < 0.001). Conclusion The results of this study demonstrated the effectiveness of schema therapy in improving self-esteem and reducing social isolation among partially sighted individuals. Healthcare providers, including psychologists and psychiatric nurses, are encouraged to consider using this intervention with other vulnerable groups, such as individuals with disabilities or physical impairments, who may experience similar challenges in self-esteem and social interaction.

Keywords

• Visually impaired
• Schema therapy
• Self-esteem
• Social isolation
• Loneliness