Training needs for providers of adolescent health care: results of a survey

A survey of the training needs of professionals who work with the adolescent population was undertaken in the state of Colorado in December 1980. Over 550 questionnaires were sent to nurses, social workers, mental health personnel and others in rural and urban areas, and 46% of these forms were returned. The eight highest ranked topics were: depression and suicide, family disruption, sexuality, psychosocial growth and development, interviewing, incest, emotional problems, and substance abuse. There was remarkable concurrence in rating these subjects by frequency of choice, by priority, by discipline, and by geographic area. This survey clearly delineates specific topics relevant for continuing education programs for adolescent health care providers.