Self-image in adolescents with delayed puberty and growth retardation

Fifty-six adolescents with varying combinations of pubertal delay and growth retardation were given the Offer Self-Image Questionnaire. Delay in sexual maturation by itself had no significant deleterious effect on self-image; however, growth retardation did. These results have important implications in determining indications for the endocrinological treatment of pubertal disorders.Received highest degree from University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. Presently Child Psychiatrist, Geha Psychiatric Hospital. Main interest is adolescent psychiatry.Received highest degree from Bar Ilan University. Current research interest is psychology of the adolescent: hormones and behavior.Received highest degree from Bar Ilan University. Current research interest is psychological disturbances in short stature.Received highest degree from Sackler School of Medicine. Current research interest is growth and diabetes.