Date of Award

Fall 12-1973

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Jack Michael

Second Advisor

Dr. Brad Huitema

Third Advisor

Dr. Fred Gault

Keywords

dental health education, dental plaque, behavior modification

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

The research described in the present paper is based upon a parsimonious analysis of behavior which utilizes principles that have been empirically determined. These principles as discussed by Ullmann and Krasner (1966) and Ulrich, Stachnik, and Mabry (1966) have suggested the wide applicability of behavior modification techniques, not only with animals, but with human subjects in diverse settings. One setting that has previously been left unexplored by proponents of behavior modification, which promises to be an area of growing concern, is that of dental hygiene.

The problem that the present study concerns itself with is educating children in the· correct methods of dental hygiene behaviors, which includes brushing, flossing, and disclosing, and then providing sufficient motivation to maintain these behaviors in the children's daily repertoires.

Past research incorporating behavior modification techniques suggests that the presentation of reinforcement contingent upon appropriate dental behaviors should increase the probability of their occurrence. Programming reinforcement contingencies so that they occur daily should sufficiently motivate daily dental behavior. Therefore, a possible solution to the problem would be to educate the subjects in the correct methods of dental hygiene behaviors and to then program daily consequation for these behaviors by those in the best position to do so.

Download

Share

COinS