Evaluation of self-concept in children with short stature

Introduction and Aim: In this study, it was aimed to examine and evaluate the self-esteem of short statured children, by using sociodemographic data due to their focus on their body in childhood and the short stature status's affecting the physical appearance. Material and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out with children aged between 9-17 years who applied to Dicle University Medical Faculty Pediatric Hospital Growth and Development Outpatient Clinic between 01.09.2018 and 30.11.2018. The sociodemographic data form and Piers-Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale were applied to 180 children with short stature. The data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) package program. Results: Of the participants, 101 (56.1%) were male and 79 (43.9%) were female. The mean age was 151.8±23,7 months. 128 of the participants (71.1%) entered puberty and 52 (28.9%) of them had not. The mean height of the children was 138.9±10,9 cm. The mean z-score was -2.30±0,2 SD. The mean score for the Piers-Harris self-concept scale was 55.2±10.0. The mean score of physical appearance was 6.03±1.8. With the progression of the calendar age, self-concept decreased. There was a negative effect of pubertal transition on self-concept. Physical appearance was found to be related to mental and school success status and happiness in short children. Conclusion: In this study, it was found that the self-concept of children with short stature was low. In the transition phase to puberty, where children begin to question their bodies and self, there is a serious decline in the self-concept. In children with short stature, physical appearance perception is positively correlated with mental and school status and happiness is closely related to physical appearance. All children followed for short stature should be evaluated psychosocially. Psychological support should be provided especially during the transition to puberty. KEYWORDS: Short stature, self concept, childhood and adolescent health.