Factors Affecting Clinical Practice Adaptation in Dental Hygiene Students: Communication Skills and Conflict Resolution

Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the communication skills and conflict resolution strategies used by dental hygiene students and to examine how these factors influence their clinical practice adaptation. Methods: Data were collected in September 2024 from 125 second- and third-year dental hygiene students with clinical practice experience at a university located in City J. The data were analyzed using SPSS/WIN 27.0, employing descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, correlation analysis, and hierarchical regression analysis. Results: The mean score for communication skills was 3.72±0.48. Among conflict resolution strategies, cooperation (3.66±0.58), accommodation (3.64±0.62), and compromise (3.43±0.58) were most frequently used. The average score for clinical practice adaptation was 3.45±0.61 and showed significant positive correlations with communication skills and the dominance, compromise, and cooperation strategies. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that in Model 1, academic year, major satisfaction, and stress from value conflict were significant predictors. In Model 2, communication skills and the dominance strategy were identified as key predictors of clinical practice adaptation (F=11.13, p<.001, R²=.639). Conclusions: Communication skills and conflict resolution strategies significantly influence dental hygiene students' adaptation to clinical practice. Therefore, it is essential to integrate structured communication training and scenario-based conflict management programs into the curriculum to support successful clinical adaptation.