Impact of Parents’ Sense of Coherence on Children’s Oral Health-Related Behaviors and Dental Caries Experience among Newcomers
Abstract
This paper examines the relationship between parents’ sense of coherence (SOC) and children’s oral health outcomes among newcomers (immigrants to Canada). Immigrant parents with children aged 1-12 years who lived in Canada for 10 years or less were recruited. Findings show that parent’s SOC was relatively low among newcomers and not associated with children’s oral health outcomes.
Notes
Community organizations: n/a
Key recommendations:
To account for specific experiences of newcomers when assessing children’s oral health, adopt a different tool to assess coping skills or evaluate other psychosocial factors such as acculturation and social support for immigrant populations, particularly newcomers.
Location: Edmonton, AB
Future research / gaps identified: n/a
Integration timeline: 10 years or less since arrival in Canada
Key findings:
Parent’s sense of coherence (SOC; score related to ability to cope with life stressors) was relatively low among newcomers and not associated with children’s oral health behaviors as well as their caries experience.
The lack of the association could be attributed to the limitations of applying this tool among newcomer families who face more communication barriers, limited literacy skills, and lower socioeconomic status.
Key populations: Immigrant parents with children ages 1-12 years old, and who have been in Canada for 10 years or less
Open access: No