[Self concept of obese children]

The author observed 58 obese and 28 control children aged from 7,7 to 15,1. Every child had drawn two pictures, the first presenting ideal body figure and the second--his (her) own portrait. There were differences between obese and control groups. It was found that 63% of obese children had a wrong estimation of her (his) own portrait. The study showed that they underestimated their figures, because they are not able to make critical selfestimation (very young children) or they do not realize their obesity. They prefer to show themselves without unpopular obesity. The investigation may be helpful in recognition of the children's attitude to their obesity, which assures the success in therapy.