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Behavioral Sciences

The fundamental principles of behavioral science are taught throughout the fours years of the dental school curriculum both didactically, clinically and experientially. Actual experience in managing a very diverse population is an integral part of the student’s education and is accomplished through both intramural and extramural patient contact.

DHPP 528 is a two-semester course consisting of 45 hours of instructional time. Semester 1 covers the subjects of human behavior change, fundamental principles governing human behavior, evidence based dentistry, stress identification and management as well as communication principles and skill building.. The second semester has in-depth lectures on health behavior models, patient value systems and compliance. Specific patient populations are demonstrated and discussed. These are infectious disease patients, chronic pain patients, non-compliant patients, abused patients, fearful and phobic patients. Behavioral approaches to the pediatric and abused patients are also discussed. Competency is judged through objective testing.

During the year long duration of this course students are given opportunities to practice communication skills and behavior rehearsal role playing one-on-one with the course instructor. This is a non-judgmental, guided learning experience in which students can take part until they feel comfortable and confident about their abilities in patient interactions. 

Also during this course, students in groups of 10-12 visit a health oriented community program  (homeless shelter, Maryland School for the Blind, unwed mother’s education program; elementary school in underserved and impoverished area; etc.)  and are instructed in the needs of the particular community visited. They are then required to make an oral hygiene presentation to the residents or attendees of that program. Each group later recounts their experience to the rest of their Dental School class. Discussion revolves around how best to meet the needs of a diverse community patient population.