Characteristics of preschoolers with lower perceived competence.
The goal of the present study was to identify preschool children with "age-inappropriate" less positive self-perceptions, and to explore their parental and peer relationships as compared to their classmates with "age normal" self-perceptions. Participants were n = 127 preschool children (Mage = 54.98 mos., SD = 8.21). Data were collected from multiple sources including parental ratings, child self-reports, and teacher ratings. Results indicated that as compared to their peers, children with less positive self-perceptions demonstrated more internalizing problems (i.e., loneliness, social-withdrawal), were more excluded by peers, and had mothers with less positive parenting styles. Results are discussed in terms of the implications of poorer self-perceptions in early childhood.
Coplan
Robert J
RJ
Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. robert_coplan@carleton.ca
Findlay
Leanne C
LC
Nelson
Larry J
LJ
D000374:Aggression / Q000523:psychology; D002653:Child Behavior Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D016487:Parenting; D010379:Peer Group; D012649:Self Concept; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires