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Abstract

The self-concept of gifted and average-ability students were examined. Using Harter's Self-Perception Profile for Children, the self-concepts of 95 girls from 18 schools were compared by age and ability. It was hypothesized that domain-specific self-concepts and global self-worth would be differently related in gifted versus (vs.) average-ability and elementary (grades 4 and 5) vs. secondary students (grades 8 and 9). As predicted, it was found that global self-worth and perceived physical appearance declined with age, and that perceived physical appearance and social acceptance were significant predictors of global self-worth. In addition, perceived scholastic competence was higher in gifted vs. average students, but it was more highly correlated with global self-worth in average-ability not gifted students as thought. It appears that the self-concept of female students may be related to school climate and ethnicity as well as ability and age.