Childhood attachments relationship to dental anxiety and deprivation
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Is attachment style predictive of dental anxiety, its risk factors or its management? Is there a relationship between attachment style and deprivation or other demographic factors?
IRAS ID
321529
Contact name
Kirsty Skye Dickson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 12 days
Research summary
The study aims to understand if a relationship exists between a child's attachment style and any dental anxiety they may experience. Childhood attachment theory was developed by Bowlby who relates a child perception/understanding of the world and their relationships, to their style of attachment to their parent/care giver. Attachment is seen as a Childs interest in close communication while feeling safe and feeling happy in an individual’s presence. Bowlby’s theory originated from an attachment study which classifies individuals in to the three categories of attachment: secure, insecure avoidant and insecure ambivalent. 60% of those studied displayed secure attachment; children were upset when the caregiver left the room, although they would be happy on their return. 20% displayed insecure avoidant attachment; children were initially not interested when the carer was in the room. When the carer left, they would not get upset upon their departure, and they would not be happy or excited on their return. The final 10-15% of children identified as insecure ambivalent attachment.
Dental anxiety is characterised by a physical and/ or emotional response to a perceived threat. Studies have shown a relationship between anxiety and attachment style; although, a link has yet to be investigated in a dental setting for children. It is important to understand where anxiety arises from and any factors which may lead to an increased chance of anxiety. This will help us plan treatment for patients and create methods of preventing dental anxiety.
This study will use two questionnaires to identify if, and what level of, dental anxiety a child presents with, alongside their attachment style. We will also collect routine data on their treatment, what diagnosis they presented with and demographic information (age, address, ethnicity). We will analyse deprivation and demographic factors for any link to attachment.
REC name
London - South East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/PR/0953
Date of REC Opinion
9 Oct 2023
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion