A systematic literature review: The self-concept of students with learning disabilities

Abstract

Since the learning disability (LD) population comprises the largest group receiving special education services, there is a need for research to examine the self-concept of this population at a global level. This systematic literature review synthesized 20 years of quantitative research (k = 16) about the self-concept of students with LD. The overarching theme was that the diagnosis of LD relies on divergent criteria among the studies reviewed. While the academic self-concept was the center of the research, regardless of its domains, results indicated that students with LD had a lower level of self-concept. To have a deeper understanding of the phenomenon, an instrument specifically designed for assessing self-concept of students with LD is needed. Limitations of the study and implications for research and practice are discussed.