Appropriateness of various behavior rating scales used in pediatric dentistry: A Review

Abstract

A youngster’s response to dental treatment may greatly facilitate or hinder the course and quality of treatment provided. Numerous children tend to experience various clinical levels of anxiety and some will go on to develop as an anxiety disorder. Estimates suggest that approximately 10–25% of the population may experience an anxiety disorder at some time. Without adequate tools to measure the levels of anxiety in children, it is not possible to isolate the problem and give them the early attention they need. Problems which have arisen in using rating scales typically involve difficulties related to reliability, validity, and measurement level. The major drawbacks of the rating system lie in possible undetected bias and misrepresentation of data. The scorer weighs the evidence on which the rating is based on a complex manner which is not easily specified, standardized, or objectified. The present review was carried out to understand the clinical significance of various behavior rating scales practiced over the years in pediatric practice.