Objective To compare the difference of the self-concept and self-esteem between the common and sub-orphan children,and explore the correlation of the self-concept and self-esteem.It can provide objective basis for appropriate psychological intervention.Methods Across-sectional survey,185 sub-orphan children of a sub-orphan charity school and 167 common children were investigated,Children's Self-concept Scale(PHCSS) and Children 's Self-esteem scale (CSES) were used to measure the self-concept and self-esteem.Results (1) There was no significant difference on total score of PHCSS between two children groups ((53.30± 13.34) vs (50.83± 11.53),t=1.86,P=0.06),but the score of intelligence and the situation in schools,appearance and properties,gregarious in sub-orphan children was significantly higher than that of common children,respectively((10.64±3.45) vs (9.23±3.47);(7.05±3.19) vs (6.31±2.73);(8.30±2.43) vs (7.72±1.86),P＜0.05).(2) There was no significant difference on total score of CSES between two children groups(P＞0.05),but the score of the sports and achievement of CSES in sub-orphan children was significantly less than that of common children,respectively (P＜ 0.05).(3) There was significant correlation between self-concept and self-esteem in sub-orphan children (P＜0.05).Conclusion There are some psychological problems in sub-orphan children and need to implement appropriate psychological intervention.