Use of the Piers-Harris Self-Concept Scale with Indian children: cultural considerations

Data from a survey of 241 Montana school children, Indian and white, were used as a basis for examining the psychometric properties of the Piers-Harris Self-Concept Scale. Strong estimates of internal consistency and support for construct validity were found. Studies using the Piers-Harris scale over the past 15 years have indicated that ethnic minority status per se is not related to lower self-concept score and that the scale is a reliable measure for use with minority group children. However, validity of the scale with Indian children warrants further examination, particularly in relation to the differential effects of ethnic culture and social environment on the measurement of self-concept.