Self-esteem in children and adolescents with mobility impairment: impact on well-being and coping strategies

Aim: The first aim was to investigate dimension-specific and global self-esteem in children and adolescents with mobility impairment and to analyse the relation between self-esteem and demographic data and disability characteristics. The second aim was to identify the impact of five self-esteem dimensions on well-being and coping strategies. Methods: A total of 138 children and adolescents aged 7-18 years with mobility impairment took part in a semi-structured interview. Demographic and disability characteristics were recorded and motor function was assessed. Self-esteem was measured by the 'I think I am' inventory. Perceived overall well-being was measured by a nine-grade visual scale, the Snoopy scale, and coping strategies by the Children's Coping Strategies Checklist. Results: Although a majority estimated a relatively high level of dimension-specific and global self-esteem, several demographic and disability factors for lower self-esteem were identified. Those who estimated their 'physical characteristics' lower used the coping strategy 'distraction' more often. Three out of five dimensions of self-esteem were positively associated with perceived overall well-being: 'physical characteristics', 'psychological well-being' and 'relationships with others'. Conclusion: Awareness of vulnerability factors for lower self-esteem in children and adolescents with mobility impairment offer health care professionals specific opportunities to enhance self-esteem in this group.