PERCEIVED PHYSICAL APPEARANCE AND ADJUSTMENT OF ADOLESCENTS WITH CONGENITAL AQUIRED LIMB DEFICIENCIES - A PATH-ANALYTIC MODEL/

Investigated perceived physical appearance as a hypothesized predictor of psychological adjustment in 44 adolescents with congenital or acqu ired limb deficiencies within a path-analytic conceptual model. Standa rdized assessment instruments measuring perceived physical appearance, depressive symptoms, trait anxiety, general self-esteem, perceived sc holastic competence, athletic competence, social acceptance, and close friendship were completed by the adolescents. In support of the aprio ri conceptual model, path-analysis findings indicate that the effect o f perceived physical appearance on psychological distress is mediated by general self-esteem. Exploratory analysis suggests that the effect of perceived physical appearance on general self-esteem may be attenua ted by potentially modifiable perceived competence/adequacy domains. S trategies for enhancing adaptation within the conceptual model are dis cussed.