Training Children to Make Accurate Self-Evaluations: Effects on Behavior and the Quality of Self-Ratings

Research has shown that self-evaluation can have positive effects on children's behavior and academic performance. Components of self-evaluation that have not been fully examined include the accuracy and sensitivity of students' ratings before and after training, as well as the effects of accuracy training on performance. Four students exhibiting behavior consistent with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) participated in the study. The students' behavior during academic activities and accuracy of self-evaluations were examined before and after accuracy training in comparison to direct observations of behavior. None of the students accurately rated his behavior prior to training. Self-evaluation alone decreased disruptive behavior for only one student, whereas self-evaluation plus accuracy training decreased the disruptive behavior of all four students. Once accuracy training was withdrawn, the level of disruptive behavior increased for three of the four students. Implications of these results for the quality and utility of self-evaluation measures and the role of accuracy training in self-evaluation effects are discussed.