Effects of aversive control in the pediatric dentistry

Authors

  • Gustavo Sattolo Rolim Unicamp
  • Antonio Bento Alves de Moraes
  • Aderson Luiz Costa Jr.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5380/psi.v12i1.7921

Keywords:

psychology applied to dentistry, behavior management strategies, aversive control

Abstract

This study aimed to describe management strategies used by dentists and their possible effect in the modification of escape or avoidance behaviors of children undergoing dental treatment. The participants included four children and one dentist. The procedure consisted of eight sessions separated in two experimental conditions. In the First Condition, the treatment followed regular procedures but physical restraint were used. In the Second Condition, the dentist could decide what management strategy to use including physical restraint. All the sessions were recorded and observed in VT and sequentially analyzed. Results indicated that when children were exposed to dental treatment they presented an overall reduction of resistance and protest responses. However, when allowed, dentists manage uncooperative responses with physical restraint, to maintain the routine of dental procedures. Results suggest that dental treatment is an important situation to promote coping responses of pediatric patients submitted to aversive stimuli. Then from an ethical point of view and that of learning of new repertoires, this paper raises a discussion about the relevance of aversive control in childhood dentistry.

Keywords: psychology applied to dentistry; behavior management strategies; aversive control.

 

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How to Cite

Rolim, G. S., de Moraes, A. B. A., & Costa Jr., A. L. (2008). Effects of aversive control in the pediatric dentistry. Interação Em Psicologia, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.5380/psi.v12i1.7921

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 1 (2008)

Section

Articles

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