Self-concept formation in children with congenital heart disease in Japan

―A literature review focusing on puberty and adolescence―

Abstract

 This study aimed to conduct a literature review on self-concept formation in children with congenital heart disease in Japan, focusing on puberty and adolescence, to identify issues and suggest future research direction. A literature search was conducted using ICHUSHI (web version) and CiNii Research, and 15 papers were analyzed. Furthermore, the following three conceptual themes were identified through organization of contents: “Self with illness”, “Self in society”, and “Self in the family”. The first issue was that the “Self with illness” theme was unclear while the “Self in society” theme had negative factors related to the self-concept formed during puberty. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the children’s overall self-concept to facilitate the provision of support that is in line with their development. Additional issues included difficulties in social adaptation during adolescence, as described in the “Self in society” theme. Thus, it is necessary to promote self-concept formation, including having future visions during puberty. Moreover, supportive parent-child relationships, building the gradual transition of the child toward independence within the context of “Self in the family”, are crucial.