Key words: metacognition, attachment, schizophrenia, metacognitive training
Objective: Several authors have highlighted how the metacognitive malfunction can be involved in the onset and progression of several types of mental disorders, such as personality disorders, autism, depression and anxiety disorders. The construct of metacognition has been investigated also in the research field about the theory of the attachment, which has closely linked the capability of thinking on mental states with the quality of the attachment bond that a child has with his caretaker.
Method: In this study, we have assessed the likely association between the schizophrenia’s symptoms, attachment styles and metacognitive aspects on the one hand, between attachment styles and metacognitive variables on the other hand, in a group of schizophrenic subjects. The test battery includes: Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ) and Metacognitive Functions Screening Scale (MFSS).
Results: The results did not stressed any correlation between the symptomatology and the attachment style while it has been noticed a relation between the sure attachment style and a better development of the metacognitive functions. After an intervention with the Metacognitive Training, we have noticed some improvements on the majority of the metacognitive functions.
Conclusions: The study encourages to continue the research involving a greater number of subjects and confirms the usefulness of including the Metacognitive Training in psychiatric rehabilitation programs.