Pediatric Dentistry

Voice Intonation as a technique of behavior modification

Voice Intonation

 

– Although most children are manageable using the methods described above, some demand use of special skills on the part of the dentist.

– The voice intonation is first such method to be utilized.

– However, VI does not mean shouting. It incorporates use of firm voice that gives clear
instructions.

– A minor change in the pitch of tone (different pitches for praising and warning) is usually
sufficient to achieve the desired effect.

– The VI can be practiced in one of the two manners: Indirect/ Direct.

– In the Indirect voice intonation method, the dentist is neither asking the child to behave nor ordering to follow instructions; he is just passing a remark regarding the child’s behavior.

– Such remarks are types of “I” messages. These remarks are many a time better than direct instructions given to the child since the latter may be perceived by the child as criticism.

 

– Examples of both the types of communications are given below:

Direct Voice Intonation

Indirect Voice Intonation

– Do not move your hands while I’m working.

– Stop crying and listen to me.

– If you don’t behave, you won’t get a gift from us.

– I don’t like children who move hands while I’m working.

– I like children who listen to me without crying.

– We give gifts only to good children who behave well.

The direct VI is rarely necessary. It expresses authority on the part of the dentist and the child has no choice but to understand what the dentist has to say.

– This method although to be used sparingly, is effective when the dentist wants to abolish any unwanted movement of the child while administering LA.

– Also, at times if a child is just demanding a parent’s presence near him/her (in a situation where the dentist has recommended parental separation), the dentist must make it clear to the child that the parent would not be brought in unless the child allows the dentist to
finish work as planned.

– In extremely rare situations, this type of voice modulation is an adjunct to
hand-over-mouth-exercise.

– While using the direct voice intonation, the dentist looks into the eyes of the child
(preferably from above), shows anger on the face and gives a clear instruction that comprises of

minimum words.

– In the indirect voice intonation, the dentist can simply say: “I’m getting angry with your
behavior.

– I wish you stop it and follow my instructions like a good boy/girl.”

– Regardless of the voice intonation used to modify the child behavior in certain situations, the dentist must re-establish a normal communication as soon as possible.

– The child’s good characteristics must again be praised after the desired outcome of voice
control is seen.

– Thus, the child does not remain scared during the rest of the procedure and starts complying better.
 

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