Ethical considerations when dealing with tween/teen dermatology patients

Tweens are a distinct patient group, situated at the juncture of childhood and the transition into adolescence. We discuss the rapid and sometimes unpredictable physiologic and psychologic development that occurs during these years and its impact on teen patients and their families. In addition to impactful changes in their bodies resulting from hormonal fluctuations, many changes to their skin may cause these patients distress and confusion. Their need for autonomy and privacy while undergoing these physical alterations while simultaneously dealing with parental demands, peer pressure, and social media at a time that they still lack the maturity and decision-making capability required to navigate these changes requires dermatologists to interact ethically with and treat these patients with sensitivity and respect. To do so is not only an ethical imperative but also impactful on their skin health (present and future) as well as their attitude toward the health care system.