title: [Competence of adolescent minors: a qualitative study of representations in the French-speaking area of Switzerland].
abstract: This exploratory qualitative study run using focus groups investigates the representations in the field of adolescent confidentiality and competence. Four groups of 3 to 8 participants (two of respectively younger and older adolescents, one of parents, one of pediatricians) have participated in a hone hour and a half discussion, than transcribed verbatim and analyzed by main themes. The concept of confidentiality is well known and understood, but the legal framework which underpins it is less well identified, both among young people and adults. Also, while the participants of all four groups agree with the idea that 14 year old youngsters are usually competent, they all admit that there are circumstances in which this statement should be revisited. Physicians report that they do not feel skilled in how to evaluate competence in such specific situations.
authors.affiliation: stephane.henninger@unil.ch
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Henninger
authors.forename: P A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Michaud
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Akré
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D003219:Confidentiality; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D016743:Mental Competency; D033242:Minors; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013557:Switzerland