Measuring health-related quality of life in adolescence

Until now, adolescents' health-related quality of life (HRQL) has primarily been examined together with children or adults. Specific aspects of adolescents' HRQL have often been neglected. However, this period in life has its own specific characteristics that must be considered in order to understand more about adolescents' HRQL. This review addresses the following issues: Which domains of HRQL are particularly important to adolescents? How are these important features of adolescent functioning related to overall HRQL? Conclusion: When examining adolescents' HRQL it is essential to acknowledge the specific aspects of adolescents' HRQL, rather than regard these individuals as either children or adults and to cover important topics that are especially salient during this period in life, such as: physical maturation and body image; peer relationships; intimacy and sexuality; and autonomy.