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Review Paper | Child Dental Health | Volume 15 Issue 4, April 2026 | Pages: 1922 - 1926 | India
Behavior Shaping Through Anticipatory Guidance by Parents in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Clinical Implications for Special Care Dentistry - A Narrative Review
Abstract: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in communication, social interaction, and sensory processing, often leading to behavioral challenges that complicate dental management. Children with ASD commonly exhibit anxiety, sensory hypersensitivity, and resistance to unfamiliar environments, resulting in poor cooperation and increased reliance on pharmacological interventions. Behavior shaping strategies based on applied behavior analysis, along with cognitive and sensory-based approaches, offer effective non-pharmacological alternatives.This narrative review outlines the etiology, characteristics, neurological basis, comorbidities, and meltdowns associated with ASD, while highlighting the role of sensory profiles, parental guidance, and multidisciplinary care. It also emphasizes the importance of communication supports such as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and pictogram-based systems. Key behavior management techniques, including applied behavior analysis, discrete trial training, functional behavior analysis, cognitive behavioral therapy, naturalistic interventions, behavior shaping, behavior chaining, distraction coaching, motivational interviewing, and mock dental visits, are discussed. Integration of these strategies into dental practice can enhance cooperation, reduce anxiety, and improve clinical outcomes in children with ASD.
Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Behavior Shaping, Anticipatory Guidance, Special Care Dentistry, Motivational interviewing, Meltdowns
How to Cite?: Dr. Savitha Sathyaprasad, Dr. Revanuru Swathi, "Behavior Shaping Through Anticipatory Guidance by Parents in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Clinical Implications for Special Care Dentistry - A Narrative Review", Volume 15 Issue 4, April 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1922-1926, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26429162927, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26429162927