Factors Associated with Peer Social Competence in Preadolescents with Craniofacial Anomalies

Examined factors associated with peer social competence in preadolescents with craniofacial anomalies (CFA). Preadolescents with relatively greater social competence reported more frequent companionship with peers, and more positive Harter (1985) Self-Perception Profile for Children perceptions of physical appearance and scholastic and athletic competence; their parents were more likely to encourage them to interact with peers. Preadolescents lower on social competence reported more loneliness and social anxiety. Parents rated them as having more behavior problems on the Child Behavior Checklist (Achenbach, 1991), especially internalizing, and were more worried about their children's friendships. Areas where preadolescents with CFA are vulnerable to poor peer relations are discussed.