Self-perceptions of preschool children with spina bifida

The purpose of this study was to compare self-perceptions of 21 preschoolers with spina bifida with those of 21 physically able preschoolers. Each child was asked to draw a self-portrait, fill in the most important body parts on an outline of a child, complete the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Competence and Social Acceptance for Young Children, and rate feelings about self, family, peers, and health care professionals. The spina bifida group drew significantly fewer legs, feet, and trunks than physically able children. The preschoolers with spina bifida rated themselves as significantly different on physical and cognitive competence but not on maternal or peer acceptance. Clinical nursing implications of these data are discussed.