The Relationship between Positive Thinking, Empathy Ability and Communication Ability of Some Dental Hygiene Students

Objectives: This study investigates the relationship between of positive thinking and empathy ability on the communication ability of dental hygiene students. Methods: First, the research objectives and methods were explained to students enrolled in the department of dental hygiene in the G area, and 160 participants were selected. An independent t-test, a one-way ANOVA, and a Scheffé test were used to measure participants’ positive thinking, empathy ability and communication ability. The correlations of positive thinking and empathy ability with communication ability were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation test, and the factors that impact communication ability were analysed using a stepwise multiple regression. Results: Higher levels of positive thinking and empathy ability correlated with better communication ability. Subjective satisfaction, goal pursuit, cognitive empathy ability, and emotional empathy ability were identified as factors that impact the communication ability of dental hygiene students. Conclusions: A dental hygiene education program designed to improve the communication ability of dental hygiene students is needed. Communication ability is a core competency that can be increased by improving positive thinking and empathy ability.