Evaluates theory and methodology underlying previous tests of the developmental proposal that self-concept becomes increasingly multidimensional with age. Develops and provides strong support for a new differential distinctiveness hypothesis, demonstrating that increasing distinctiveness--substantial age-related declines in correlations among…

Contends that recent advances in theory and research on academic self-concept have important implications for practice of school psychology. Reviews research on most commonly posited structural models of self-concept, and pervasive frame of reference effects that link individual academic self-concepts to larger social context. Discusses…