Self-concept of early primary school age children with visible or invisible defects

This study compares self-concept scores on the Primary Self-Concept Inventory (PSCI) of 58 7-year-old children. The experimental groups included the three following subgroups: those with visible defects (cleft lip), mixed visible and invisible defects (cleft lip and palate), and invisible defects (cleft palate). The control consisted of first grade students with no physical defects. Significant differences between the subjects with clefts and controls were found. Children with cleft lip and palate (visible and invisible defects) demonstrated the lowest self-concept scores. These test results suggest that early primary school age children experience significant stigma. Therefore, early evaluation of psychosocial stress factors for children with clefts is suggested. School personnel can contribute to addressing self-concept concerns of children with defects. Suggestions for further research are presented.