Accompanied by a vast list of references, this article offers a concise, clear, comprehensive review of important elements which must be considered in differentiating between healthy adolescents and those with psychopathologic conditions. The categories to be considered ("characteristics of adolescence," "therapist's conceptual framework," "personality of the therapist," "familial factors," "sociocultural factors") are all accompanied by brief, pertinent clinical examples. This essay provides a superb framework for teaching and discussion.