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In a study of participation in a school-based preventive dental program, the relationship between children's beliefs about health and their participation did not follow predictions of the Health Belief Model. Further, perceived efficacy was the only belief altered by an introduction to the program, despite the fact that some children participated in group discussions designed to change other health beliefs as well. The similarity of these data to other data on health beliefs of children and adults is cited. It is suggested that health beliefs are difficult to change and are often unrelated to behavior. It is also suggested that health beliefs and behavior might be parallel developments in the individual that need not be causally related. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inner-city and suburban students' dental experiences, current practices, beliefs, and compliance with two school-based preventive programs were examined. Striking differences were found in the students' dental experiences, practices, and beliefs, but few in their compliance. These findings challenge the notion that inner-city students are poor compliers and suggest ways in which practitioners and public health officials might utilize the differing practices of these populations to plan preventive programs for adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]