Comparison of self concept depression level and academic achievement of children who have single parents or parents in terms of age and sex

In this research the self concepts, depression levels, family composition, sex and age variables of children at primary education level between ages 10-15 who have two parents or single parents. Besides, it has been examined whether family composition and sex are effective on academic achievement. Subjects have been chosen from 7 primary schools in the city center of Adana. Subjects were 632 students 317 of which have two parents and 315 of which have single parents. In the study; The Self-Concept Scale For Children" of Piers-Harris for collecting data about the self-concept of children, "Depression Scale For Children" for measuring the children's depression level and "Information Form" for stating the family composition of the students have been used. Findings revealed a meaningful difference in the depression level of the children in relation with age, family composition and sex. Analysis have shown that girls who come from single parents have high depression levels. Analysis have also shown that there is meaningful difference in happiness, anxiety, physical appearance and situation in school sub-scales of self- concept scale in relation with family composition and sex. It has been VIIIobserved that there are meaningful differences in academical achievement points in relation with family composition and sex. While no meaningful difference have been observed in the depression level of the students in relation with age groups, it has been observed that there is meaningful difference in "Happiness Sub-Scale Of Self-Concept" for students in 11-12 age group. Meaningful difference has been found in "School Situation Sub-Scale Of Self-Concept" points for students in 11-12 age group. Key Words : Self-concept, Divorce, Depression, Single Parents, Academic Achievement