Mary Agnes Kendra, PhD, RN¹, Marlene S. Huff, PhD, RN², and Elizabeth S. Kinion, EdD, RN². (1) College of Nursing, The University of Akron, 209 Carroll Street, Akron, OH 44325-3701, 330-972-7559, kendra7@uakron.edu, (2) College of Nursing, University of Akron, 209 Carroll Street, Akron, OH 44325-3701

One of the unrecognized public health problems that has not been a priority concern among vulnerable populations is the effect of diminished oral health on self-esteem. The literature suggests the way one appears to others influences the way one views themself. The purpose of this study was to identify relationships between oral health and self-esteem. Clients completed the Index of Self-Esteem (Hudson, 1974) and a demographic profile. Additional clinical information was obtained during an oral health assessment at nurse managed health clinics located in an academic setting and a homeless shelter. These clients (N=86) were deemed to have no health insurance, low income, and no dental insurance. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sample. Bivariate statistical tests including t-test and Pearson's r were used to identify relationships among variables (oral health findings, scores on a self-esteem questionnaire [Hudson, 1974], age and race). Participants demonstrated a wide range of self-esteem characteristics. When analyzing differences between those who scored high and low on the questionnaire, it appeared that other factors may have been operational and suggest that plans of care include a broader approach than just extracting teeth.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe characteristics of self-esteem evidenced by a vulnerable population.
• Identify a program of interventions for meeting the oral health needs in vulnerable populations.

Keywords: Oral Health, Mental Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.