Network analysis of early maladaptive schemes and career adaptability of students

Background: Numerous studies have shown that early maladaptive schemes play a role in various aspects of human life, but there is a research gap in the relationship between these schemes and career path adaptability. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between early maladaptive schemes and adaptability of students' career path by network analysis. Methods: The research method was descriptive, correlational and research tools were Young's Scheme Questionnaire (1990) and Savickas' Career Adaptability Questionnaire (2012). The statistical population included all students of universities and higher education institutions in the country in 2019, sampling method was non-random with maximum variation and the sample size was 849 people. Questionnaires were provided to students through Google Docs. Network analysis, R software and Qgragh package were used for data analysis. Results: Based on the betweenness index, Unrelenting Standards scheme (20) and the confidence (19) were ranked first. Also, the shortest path between adaptability dimensions and schemes was obtained separately: The dimension of Concern, with the schemes of Approval-Seeking (10/21), Subjugation(10/76) and Insufficient Self- control(13/17), Control dimension, with schemes of Emotional Deprivation(9/99), Insufficient Self-Control(10/69) and Unrelenting Standards(11/76), Curiosity dimension with Insufficient Self-control(10/26), Emotional deprivation(10/99) and Mistrust(11/21), And the dimension of Confidence with Insufficient Self-control(8/10), Unrelenting Standards(9/17) and Failure to Achive(10/36), have the shortest distance, respectively. Conclusion: The results showed that from 18 early maladaptive scheme, 8 schemes of Approval-Seeking, Subjugation, Insufficient self-control, Emotional Deprivation, Unrelenting Standards, Entitlement, Mistrust and Failure to Achive have the most role in various dimensions of students' career path adaptability