198. The Utility of Self-Determination Theory in Predicting Future Transition Readiness Among Adolescents and Emerging Adults with Special Healthcare Needs (AEASHCN)

Abstract

Adolescents and Emerging Adults with Special Healthcare Needs (AEASHCN) must develop self-management skills (transition readiness) in preparation for transition to adult-based care. Health-promoting theories, such as Self-Determination Theory (SDT), may help identify factors that contribute to the development of transition readiness over time. The purpose of this study is to utilize a SDT framework to predict transition readiness among AEASHCN participating in a longitudinal study. We hypothesized that the SDT constructs of competence, autonomy, and autonomy support at baseline would predict AEASHCN transition readiness a year or more later.