Published online by Cambridge University Press: 12 February 2016
Confusion exists with regard to the substantive difference between self-concept and self-esteem. In an endeavour to cast some light on this confusion two studies were conducted with 1193 preadolescents using modified versions of two commonly used instruments designed to measure self-concept and self-esteem. Exploratory factor analysis indicated that both these instruments measure specific facets of the same construct, namely self-concept. General or global self-concept proved to be a difficult construct to measure in preadolescent students.