The issue of self-concept is central to the studies and practices of education and psychology. The varying degrees of self-esteem that exist between individuals can offer insight into the varying degrees of health and efficiency that exist for individuals in the worlds of education, family and sport. The research presented in this book are the latest explorations of how self-concept translates into and has an effect on these far reaching and unavoidable aspects of life.

The aim of this book is to discuss the notions of self-concept, self-esteem, and related terms from an educational and psychological perspective. Specifically, this book is concerned with developing a model of self-concept -- and corollaries to this model -- that assesses the dimensionality of self-concept, reviews tests of self-concept, discusses the relationship between self- concept and other variables (particularly achievement), describes the development of self-concept, and evaluates programs to enhance self-concept. Throughout this volume, emphasis is placed on ordering the many studies using recent methodological advances such as meta-analysis and the analysis of covariance structures. After detailing a conceptual model of self-concept, the book offers various experimental and statistical discussions of the model. Unlike many other models, the claim is not that this model is the correct one but that it may serve as a useful "coathanger" until a better one is devised.

Drawing on analysis of children at home and in school, including transcripts of conversations at home, and teachers’ notes based on their observations and response to each child’s school experiences, Bridie Raban presents a cutting-edge insight into the adjustment of the first experience of school, reflected against the background of home life.