351 internists, family practitioners & pediatricians rated their competency in 19 areas of adolescent health care. All physicians reported deficiencies in dealing with eating disorders, drug & alcohol abuse, homosexuality & delinquency. Over 45% of the physicians reported deficiencies in areas related to social/emotional concerns including suicide, depression & family conflicts. In none of the 19 areas did physicians who reported deficiencies express an interest in improving their competency.