Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Time perspective is a fundamental component of individual cognition, often conceptualized through one's perception of time. Childhood experiences play a pivotal role in shaping an individual's temporal outlook. This study aims to investigate the predictive relationship between early maladaptive schemas and the five dimensions of time perspective, with life expectancy as a mediating variable. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 336 students (43.45% male, 56.55% female) from Shahed University, selected through convenience sampling. Participants were drawn from various faculties, and both genders were represented proportionately. Data collection occurred in June 2023, utilizing the Young Schema Questionnaire Short Form, Snyder's Hope Scale, and the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25 and Amos version 24. RESULTS: Data analysis reveals that the correlation matrix shows significant associations (p < 0.001) between most early maladaptive schema domains and the majority of time perspective subscales. Additionally, early maladaptive schemas directly predict the negative past, present hedonistic, and present deterministic dimensions of time perspective. Meanwhile, the positive past, present hedonistic, present deterministic, and future dimensions are indirectly predicted through the mediating effect of life expectancy. Fit indices (CFI > 0.9, GFI > 0.9, IFI > 0.9, AGFI > 0.8) indicate a strong model fit. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that Young's schemas are significant predictors of time perspective. These results highlight the need to reconsider parenting practices, as they are a primary source of schema formation. By addressing maladaptive schema development in childhood, individuals may develop healthier time perspectives.