The author discusses the thesis that self-concept tests are not construct valid for blacks because they may be measuring group (rather than individual) self-concept. In several listed studies, black children failed to identify with their own group in doll selection tasks. Williams suggested that children's social learning emphasizes the concept that black is bad and white is good. Clark, in 1939, suggested that black self image is a reflection of society's image of blacks. Hraba and Grant found more positive self concepts in black children in 1970, perhaps due to the local "Black Movement" and increased pride. Fox and Jordan also found that social change enhanced black self esteem in a study of black, white, and Chinese children. A study comparing black and white college students in 1963 and in 1969 indicated that blacks felt increasingly positive toward blacks and less positive toward whites, while white attitudes remained constant. The author feels that it is plausible to assume that black self concept is a function of group rather than individual dynamics, since cross-sectional studies indicate shifts in self concept were uniform for the majority of black respondents. (GDC)