[Lexicologic parameters of free association (coupling) about teeth of Hungarian primary school children. An initial study].

Free association (coupling) of 97 Hungarian primary school children (age: 8-15 yrs, 44 male, 53 female) about their teeth was collected and analysed related to lexicologic parameters, as a pilot to establish further investigations. In some cases significant (p < or = 0.05) differences within the groups related to several topics were detected in the case of the length of the text and in the case of the distribution of etymons (root of word). Gender significantly influenced the length of the text as well. Some effect of dental fear and anxiety on the length of the text, and on the etymon's distribution may also be possible. The analysis of the most frequently used words indicated some coupling of pain and fear, and the importance of the mother in how the children see dental life events.