Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026
07:01
Experimental Paradigm for Measuring the Effects of Self-distancing in Young Children
Published on: March 1, 2019
8.4K
Self-Concept in Pediatric Cancer Patients
1Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece. ikoutel@uniwa.gr.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|January 1, 2026
Summary
Children with cancer experience negative impacts on self-concept, particularly regarding physical appearance and popularity, compared to healthy peers. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to support pediatric cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychology
- Childhood Oncology
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Pediatric cancer patients often face lasting self-concept alterations.
- Visible changes associated with cancer treatment can significantly impact a child's self-perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the self-concept, specifically physical appearance and popularity, of children with cancer versus healthy children.
- To investigate age and gender differences in self-concept among these groups.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive correlational study involving 100 children (50 with cancer, 50 healthy), aged 8-10 years.
- Utilized the Piers-Harris Children's Self-Concept scale for data collection.
- Statistical analysis included chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis tests.
Main Results:
- Children with cancer reported significantly lower scores for physical appearance and popularity than healthy children.
- Age and gender influenced self-concept perceptions, with specific differences noted in physical appearance and popularity.
- A positive correlation between popularity and physical appearance was observed exclusively in children with cancer.
Conclusions:
- Significant differences exist in physical appearance and popularity self-perceptions between children with cancer and their healthy peers.
- Physical appearance is a critical factor influencing the self-concept of children undergoing cancer treatment.
- Findings can guide the development of tailored psychosocial interventions for pediatric cancer patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Self-Concept
1.4K
Self-concept is the cognitive and emotional understanding individuals hold about their identity. It evolves through various developmental stages, beginning in infancy and maturing as children grow. This concept influences how individuals perceive their abilities, interact with others, and manage challenges throughout life.
Infancy and Emerging Recognition
During infancy, self-concept is virtually nonexistent. Babies do not distinguish themselves as separate entities and often mistake their...
Infancy and Emerging Recognition
During infancy, self-concept is virtually nonexistent. Babies do not distinguish themselves as separate entities and often mistake their...
1.4K
01:20Understanding Self-Concept
185
The self-concept encompasses individuals' beliefs about themselves, structured through cognitive frameworks known as self-schemas. These schemas function as mental representations of specific traits or behaviors, influencing how self-relevant information is perceived, processed, and remembered. For example, individuals who are schematic for body weight are more likely to interpret routine experiences—such as dining out or shopping—through the lens of that trait. Conversely, those...
185
03:00Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
5.7K
Social psychologists have documented that feeling good about ourselves and maintaining positive self-esteem is a powerful motivator of human behavior (Tavris & Aronson, 2008). In the United States, members of the predominant culture typically think very highly of themselves and view themselves as good people who are above average on many desirable traits (Ehrlinger, Gilovich, & Ross, 2005). Often, our behavior, attitudes, and beliefs are affected when we experience a threat to our...
5.7K
01:20Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other
213
According to George Herbert Mead, as children progress beyond the game stage, they develop a more comprehensive understanding of societal rules and norms. This cognitive and social development enables them to internalize the expectations of the broader community, refining their ability to regulate behavior.Consistent participation in organized activities is crucial in helping children recognize that their actions are not isolated but contribute to a more significant, interconnected group...
213
02:57The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
55.3K
According to Charles Cooley, we base our image on what we think other people see (Cooley 1902). We imagine how we must appear to others, then react to this speculation. We don certain clothes, prepare our hair in a particular manner, wear makeup, use cologne, and the like—all with the notion that our presentation of ourselves is going to affect how others perceive us. We expect a certain reaction, and, if lucky, we get the one we desire and feel good about it. But more than that, Cooley...
55.3K
01:23Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
438
Adolescence is a pivotal period of identity formation, during which individuals begin to answer questions central to their sense of self, such as "Who am I?" and "Who do I hope to become?" Both parents and peers play critical roles in guiding adolescents through this complex developmental phase.
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
438