Self-concept domains and global self-worth among Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong

Abstract

The multidimensional assessment of self-concept domains in addition to global self-concept has raised questions regarding their relationship. This study assessed global self-worth and specific self-evaluations on eight domains of competence or adequacy in a sample of 379 Chinese adolescent boys and girls (Grades 10 to 13) using the Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents (SPPA). Although the eight domains of Scholastic Competence, Social Acceptance, Athletic Competence, Physical Appearance, Job Competence, Romantic Appeal, Behavioural Conduct, and Close Friendship were in general articulated and differentiated, Chinese adolescents distinguished school performance from intellectual ability, and dating behaviours from sexual attractiveness. The indexes representing the manner in which different domain-specific evaluations were integrated into global evaluation suggested that adolescents might not be fully aware of how they arrived at their global evaluation. The use of the SPPA with Chinese adolescents and cross-cultural comparisons are discussed.