The effects of systematic human relations training on freshman dental students.

Freshman dental students received training in communication skills via a systematic human relations model. The 35 students participating in the program substantially improved their ability to discern feelings of patients and to communicate with patients in a more understanding and accepting manner. The students thought that the training was beneficial and highly relevant to their future roles as dentists. This kind of training could be offered successfully to other dental health professionals through programs in continuing education.