Self-concept development and measurement in children with mild intellectual disabilities

Dev Neurorehabil. 2010;13(5):322-34. doi: 10.3109/17518423.2010.496765.

Abstract

Objective: Using a multi-trait-multi-method technique, self-concept was analysed as a function of chronological age in children with mild intellectual disabilities. Also, relations between reading achievement and self-concept were measured.

Methods: Participants were assessed on the Woodcock Reading Mastery Test-Revised, the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Competence and Social Acceptance and the Self-Description Questionnaire I--Individual Administration.

Results: A median split was run to divide participants into younger and older groups; older participants evidenced coefficients that revealed more multidimensionality, stability and discriminant validity. Also, a significant canonical correlation was found between the Harter Pictorial Scale at Time 1 and WRMT-R at Time 2, chi(2)(8) = 17.99, r = 0.62, p = 0.02.

Conclusion: As a whole, these results suggest that children with intellectual disabilities evince self-concept development similar to what would be expected in typically-developing children.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Child
  • Child Development*
  • Concept Formation*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intellectual Disability / psychology*
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Reading*
  • Self Concept*
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Surveys and Questionnaires