Redefining transition: Self-efficacy in urologic care.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Behavioral Science
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Pediatric urologic advances create a growing adult population with childhood-onset urologic disorders.
• Current transition readiness tools focus on tasks, not essential self-management skills like confidence and motivation.
• Effective transition requires addressing psychological and environmental factors for sustained self-care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an enhanced, self-efficacy-driven approach for transitioning young adults with urologic disorders.
• To introduce the Uro-TRAQ, a modified readiness assessment tool incorporating confidence and resilience.
• To outline an Individualized Transition Plan (ITP) framework for clinicians to support lifelong self-management.

Main Methods:

• Review of behavioral science evidence and health behavior change models (e.g., Social Cognitive Theory, Health Belief Model).
• Conceptual development of the Uro-TRAQ, adapting the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ).
• Integration of Uro-TRAQ within an Individualized Transition Plan (ITP) framework.

Main Results:

• Self-efficacy, resilience, and motivation are key predictors of durable behavior change in health management.
• The Uro-TRAQ assesses confidence, resilience, motivation, and environmental barriers, alongside urology-specific skills.
• The ITP framework guides clinicians in using motivational interviewing, resilience-building, and mastery pathways.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians can foster confidence, resilience, and autonomy for lifelong self-management in young adults with urologic conditions.
• The Uro-TRAQ and ITP provide a structured approach to address skill and confidence gaps during transition.
• An evidence-based, psychologically informed approach enhances transition readiness beyond simple task completion.