INTERACTIONAL ANXIETY AND DENTAL TREATMENT - AN EMPIRICAL-TEST OF A COMPOSITE PREDICTOR FOR STATE ANXIETY

This study empirically examined the validity of the trait anxiety-perception (ATP) score, a composite predictor for state anxiety. The ATP score is constructed from trait anxiety and situation perception data derived from the Endler Multidimensional Anxiety Scales (EMAS; Endler, Edwards & Vitelli. Los Angeles, CA: Western Psychological Services, 1989). ATP mathematically combines the individual's trait anxiety and situation perception profiles, and adjusts these with a multiplier which reflects the individual's sensitivity to particular types of situational elements, in terms of state anxiety inducement. This investigation focused on the state anxiety associated with dental treatment concerning the repair of cavities, and results indicated that the prediction of state anxiety based on the ATP score was superior to those provided by social evaluation, physical danger, ambiguous and daily routines trait anxiety. These results were discussed in terms of the perceptual multidimensionality of experimental situations. © 1991.