The empirical research on psychological and social adjustment of children and adolescents with visual impairments is reviewed. The dichotomy between deficit and nondeficit functioning of these youths is explored. Personality research suggests that some youth with visual impairments display minor deficits in self-concept and self-esteem. It is noted that although the results of these self-concept studies are contradictory, there is more evidence in favor of than opposed to such deficits. The evidence in favor of negative social functioning and increased interpersonal ineffectiveness among youth with visual impairments is somewhat less contradictory. Implications of the findings within the context of current cultural perspectives are discussed. (Contains 33 references.) (SW)