Role of Adolescent Development in the Transition Process

Abstract

Adolescent development is the normal process of transition from childhood to adulthood. Adolescents with transplants make the transition from pediatric to adult care within the context of other transitions in cognition, emotional attachments, autonomy, self-identity, sexuality, physical changes, life philosophy, and education/vocation. Healthcare providers can reduce their frustrations with this age group and optimize their care by understanding the impact of adolescent development on the transition process. In a busy clinic, attention to developmental issues can take on a low priority, but this does not have to be time consuming and may involve more of a perspective change than anything else. Both the adult and pediatric teams should remember that development does not stop at the time of transfer of care.