Transition of adolescents with special health care needs: review and analysis of the literature.

A review and analysis of 43 transition studies published from 1982 through 2003 was conducted. The studies reviewed represent the diverse purposes of international researchers for examining transition issues and questions. Findings of this literature review indicate that transition research is in early stages of development. A number of limitations were associated with these studies, including the lack of theoretical frameworks, the use of valid and reliable instruments, and research designs lacking adequate controls. Future research studies are needed that overcome the design limitations of past investigations.