Comparison of Body Image, Self-Esteem and Behavior Problems between Children of Short and Normal Stature

Kim, Mi Ye

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of body image, self-esteem, and behavior problems comparing children of short stature and children of normal height, and to enhance growth development through early detection of social or emotional problems in children of short stature.
METHODS
The data were collected from June 2 to September 25, 2008. The participants were 38 children who were diagnosed with short stature and their mothers and 38 children of age appropriate stature and their mothers selected from 311 elementary students in D city. The participants were matched by using propensity analysis for controlling confounding variables. Sapiro-Wilk test, t-test, Wilcoxon test, and Pearson correlation coefficients with SPSS/WIN 14.0 program were used to analyze the data.
RESULTS
There were significant differences in body image and behavior problems between children of short stature and children of age appropriate stature. There was no significant difference in self-esteem between the two groups. Positive correlation was found between body image and self-esteem. In children of age appropriate stature, a negative correlation was found between body image and behavior problems.
CONCLUSIONS
A specialized program which focuses on behavior problems, body image, and self-esteem should be developed to help children of short stature in school-based settings.