The effect of free or reduced-price lunches on the self-esteem of middle school students.

This study proposed to determine whether 52 middle school students who received free or reduced-price meals suffered lower general or area-specific self-esteem than did 52 sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students who did not receive such benefits. It further sought to determine whether self-esteem varied according to grade level. Using the Piers-Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale, no significant differences were found for either group at any grade level for general or area-specific self-esteem. Interpersonal process resources, the use of a checklist, short-term relief, defensiveness, and external forces are considered as possible explanations.