[Self-concept in subjects after first heart attack, patients with selected dermatological diseases and healthy individuals].

Abstract

Introduction: This work is aimed at comparing the self-concept of individuals suffering from somatic diseases differing in the severity of symptoms and their visibility.

Material and methods: The study was carried out in three groups of subjects aged 30 to 65 years, with an even proportion of males and females: 160 dermatological patients, 160 patients after first heart attack and 160 healthy individuals. The structure and content of self-concept were measured with The Wheel Questionnaire by Ben Shalit.

Conclusions: Somatically ill individuals revealed lower levels of self-acceptance and motivation for psychological change than healthy individuals, and they also possessed less self-knowledge then healthy subjects. These qualities of self-concept can diminish the adaptive abilities of ill persons. Therefore, the aims of psychological work with these patients should include enhancing their self-acceptance and willingness to change, as well as widening their self-awareness by encouraging reflection and exploration of various areas of experiencing and functioning.