Schema Spotlight #4

Schemas, formed through life experiences, encompass a range of mental elements including feelings, sensations, memories, thoughts, and beliefs. These structures profoundly influence our perception of ourselves and others, guiding our decisions and actions in navigating the world.

Self-Sacrifice Schema [SS]: This schema portrays the tendency to sacrifice or overlook personal needs in favour of others. The self-sacrifice schema often arises from heightened sensitivity to others' suffering. This is contrasted with schemas like Approval-Seeking schema, where others’ needs are prioritised as a means for self-recognition or approval, or Subjugation schema, driven by coercion to prioritise the other.

Individuals with the Self-Sacrifice schema may keenly perceive others' needs, yet struggle with feelings of guilt or selfishness when considering their own needs. Simultaneously, frustration may mount as their needs go unmet by both themselves and others, eventually leading to resentment and anger.

While sacrifice is a natural aspect of relationships, the self-sacrifice schema manifests when one's needs consistently take a backseat or are deemed less significant than others'.