SELF-CONCEPT development of school-aged children with congenital upper limb differences: A mixed-methods study

Background

School-aged children enter an essential phase of psychosocial development in which they begin to form their self-concept. Having a negative self-concept has a direct relationship on the gradual evolution of a child's personality which can influence academic and career success, peer interactions and relationships, generativity and life satisfaction and meaning. There is limited research examining self-concept in children with congenital upper limb differences.

Objectives

Describe self-concept in school-aged children with congenital upper limb differences (CULD).

Methods

In this convergent mixed methods study, we used the Piers Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale (PHCSCS) and modified photovoice methodology to explore self-concept in school aged children with CULD. The quantitative results from the PHCSCS were merged with the qualitative findings from the 63 photographs and 63 written descriptions provided by nine children.

Results

Mean self-concept was 51.22 (±10.43). Mean domain scores: behavioral adjustment 52 (±8.19), freedom from anxiety 48.56 (±10.42), happiness and satisfaction 49.44 (±10.73), intellectual and school status 54.78 (±10.31), and social acceptance 49.89 (±8.64). Nine participants described five themes of self-concept: emotions, sense of accomplishments, positive view of oneself and one's physical body, hobbies, and a sense of connection. Children defined their self-concept through expressions of self-efficacy, self-image, and social identity.

Implications

Results created a more comprehensive description of self-concept, and expanded understanding of the social identity of school-aged children with congenital upper limb difference. Future research is needed to examine the relationships between self-efficacy, self-image, and social identity to develop interventions promoting healthy self-concept development.