ABSTRACT
It is easy to regard adolescents as young adults, but in fact their position is rather unique, as they may show the conflicting attitudes and behaviour of both children and grown-ups at the same time. Try to make them feel at ease, as it may be difficult for them to talk to adults openly, and make it clear that you are listening to their point of view and are not automatically taking their parents’ side. You may find that using clear and simple language mixed with humour can be a good way to avoid lecturing or sounding patronising. Often adolescents who come to see you accompanied by a parent may find it difficult to open up. Finding some excuse to send the parent out of the room for a while (e.g. asking them to check at reception when the next free appointment is available, or saying that you would like to examine their child on his or her own in your examination room) may give you an opportunity to talk to the young person alone, and may thus help him or her to be franker with you.
