2010 - Volume 33, Number 10
Editor, Micki M. Caskey, Ph.D., Portland State University

A Longitudinal Investigation of Young Adolescents' Self-Concepts in the Middle Grades

Abstract

Young adolescents grapple with a host of changes that may influence how they perceive themselves: rapid physical and emotional development, the transition to new school environments, and the onset of adolescence. The purpose of this study is to investigate young adolescents' perceptions of self prior to and during their middle grades years. Data were collected from 78 fifth grade students using the Piers Harris Self-Concept Scale beginning in the spring of their fifth grade year and continuing across multiple data points in middle school. Data analyses indicate that young adolescents initially experience positive changes in five of six domain-specific aspects of self-concept after the transition to middle school, followed by subsequent declines to mean ratings at or below their elementary school values. Findings highlight the importance of attending to young adolescents' self-concept needs prior to and during their middle grades experiences.

ISSN 1940-4476