Temperamental and behavioural characteristics of adults seeking treatment for severe dental fear

• Other psychological/behavioral factors in addition to fear and traditional measures of psychopathology should possibly be considered in the assessment and treatment of dental fear. The present study investigated fear and personality profiles among severely fearful adult patients. Participants were 230 consecutive adults applying for treatment of severe dental anxiety at a specialized clinic. Background data included dental treatment and dental fear history, general anxiety and depression assessments. Cluster analyses were performed. Four different fear and personality subgroups were judged to best represent data: (I) Fearful, extrovert, outgoing, (II) Highly fearful, extrovert, outgoing, (III) Fearful, inhibited, and (IV) Highly fearful, multiple problems. The view that adults with dental fear comprise a heterogeneous group was strengthened. Apart from different levels of dental fear, there seems to be varying temperamental and behavioral characteristics that need to be further studied and that may lead to a better match of treatment for these patients.

Ämnesord

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Psykologi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Psychology (hsv//eng)

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