The self-images of 49 adolescents with learning disabilities (Grades 9 through 12, mean age=15.9) and 49 normally achieving peers (Grades 9 through 12, mean age=16.0) were compared using the Offer Self-Image Questionnaire (OSIQ). The group with LD scored significantly lower than the comparison group on 4 of the 10 OSIQ scales. Later diagnosed adolescents with LD scored significantly higher than early-diagnosed adolescents on two of the scales. Severity of the learning disability was not found to be related to self-image scores. In a second study, parental perceptions of the self-images of 28 of the 49 students with LD were studied by administering the Offer Parent-Adolescent Questionnaire (OPAQ) and an informal questionnaire to their parents. On 6 of the 10 OPAQ scales, parents perceived their children as having a lower self-image than the adolescents themselves reported. Significant but moderate relationships were found between parents'perceptions and adolescent self-image scores. Results of the two studies are interpreted in terms of a multidimensional conception of self-image that considers factors inherent to the individual as well as interpersonal and institutional factors.
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