Dentists' attitudes and behaviors regarding domestic violence. The need for an effective response.

摘要: ABSTRACT Background The authors examined the attitudes and behaviors of a national sample dentists regarding domestic violence barriers face in intervening to help victims. Methods surveyed random 321 by mail from November 1997 March 1998 about their clinical practice related violence. Survey items were developed based on health care literature. used Total Design Method maximize response rate analyzed data determine differences between who had received education those not. Results Eighty-seven percent responding never screened for violence; 18 even when patients visible signs trauma heads or necks. Overall, respondents intervened only minimally whom they identified as Respondents reported that major screening presence partner children (77 percent), lack training (68 concern offending (66 percent) own embarrassment bringing up topic abuse (51 percent). significantly more likely screen intervene. Conclusions Dentists many identifying helping are victims, yet these suggest could them overcome some barriers. Clinical Implications We follow AVDR model approaching abused practice: Ask abuse, provide Validating messages, Document presenting Refer victims specialists.