Relation of Self-Concept to Impact and Obviousness of Disability among Male and Female Adolescents

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Abstract
This study investigated adolescents' self-concept and the relation of self concept to sex, impact of physical disability, and the obviousness of the disability. It was hypothesized that the three variables would significantly interact. To form criterion groups according to self-perceived physical problems, a scale, Major Medical Problem, was constructed and administered to 382 male and female high school juniors. Significant interaction effects were demonstrated between sex and impact on the three self-concept dimensions (real, acceptance, and ideal) and a significant triple interaction among sex, obviousness, and impact on the three measures and on social desirability. Results suggested greatest impact on self concept occurred for adolescent females with physical problems of high impact and visibility. Implications of the findings were discussed within the context of Friedenberg's concept of sex-differentiated, adolescent needs for competence.

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