Self-concept and self-esteem among children and young adults with visual impairment: A systematic review

Abstract: The purpose of the study was to summarize current scientific knowledge relating to self-concept and self-esteem among children and young adolescents with visual impairment (VI). A systematic review was conducted of articles published between 1998 and 2016. A total of 26 publications, representing 15 countries, met the inclusion criteria, and 24 of the studies had used a cross-sectional design. Some studies found that the age and degree of vision loss influenced perceived selfesteem. In general, independence in mobility, parenting style, social support, and friendship was reported as important for children with VI to enhance their self-concept and self-esteem. To be able to provide opportunities for a successful development and good self-evaluation, we need more knowledge and further longitudinal observation studies and randomized clinical trials with high quality to increase the possibilities to draw conclusions about cause and effect.