A short reference for one schema. Compare all 18 schemas and five domains.
What Is Vulnerability to Harm Schema?
This schema involves an exaggerated fear that imminent catastrophe will strike at any time and that one will be unable to prevent it.
Common Signs
You might have this schema if you frequently experience:
- Worrying excessively about health, safety, or disasters
- Avoiding situations you perceive as risky
- Experiencing anxiety about things beyond your control
- Seeking constant reassurance about safety
- Hypervigilance about potential threats
Fictional Everyday Examples
Here are some common ways vulnerability to harm schema shows up in daily life:
- •Avoiding travel due to fear of accidents
- •Constantly checking for symptoms of illness
- •Catastrophizing minor health concerns
- •Excessive worry about natural disasters or crime
Related Schemas
Compare this pattern with other possible explanations:
Source and scope
Definitions are paraphrased and examples are fictional, for educational use. Consult the International Society of Schema Therapy’s central concepts.
These signs are not diagnostic criteria. How we prepare our content.
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