Paediatric dentists’ knowledge of behavioural management principles in Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

AIM: Behaviour management is one of the essential skills of paediatric dentists. Appropriate use of behavioural principles helps the child in developing the skills and behaviours necessary to willingly undergo dental care, not hindered by undue anxiety or fear. However, very little is known about the knowledge of principles regarding behaviour management among paediatric dentists. Contingency management which is based on the principles of behaviour analysis is a widely accepted behavioural management technique and it includes reinforcement and punishment. The aim and objective of this study was to assess the knowledge of paediatric dentists regarding behavioural management principles related to contingency management. MATERIALS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among paediatric dental professionals and post-graduate students pursuing masters in paediatric dentistry across Tamil Nadu, India using Knowledge of Behavioural Principles as Applied to Children (KBPAC) questionnaire modified for the dental setting. The data were obtained, tabulated and statistically analysed using SPSS. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of behavioural management principles related to contingency management among paediatric dentists in Tamil Nadu, India is low.