Physical disability and self-concept: congenitally and adventitiously disabled : a comparison approach

Includes bibliographical references (pages 27-29)This study was designed to measure any significant differences in the self-concept of two groups of physically disabled college students. In addition, this study attempted to more clearly define the major variables in the relationship between physical disability and self-concept.\ud The subjects consisted of 60 disabled students, composing two groups of 30 congenitally disabled and 30 adventitiously disabled subjects. The sample was randomly selected from a population of disabled students receiving services from the Handicapped Students Affairs Office, California State University, Northridge. Self-concept was measured by the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale, chosen for its multi-faceted look at self-concept and the variables affecting it. Ten hypotheses concerning the relationship between self-concept and congenital and adventitious physical disabilities were formulated and tested. Of the hypotheses formulated, only one that of the relationship between congenital and adventitious disabilities and physical self, showed any significant difference. This hypothesis was examined at length. Recommendations for future research are also included