Abstract Objective:

To analyze the basis on which the behavioral approach model adopted by Brazilian Pediatric Dentistry throughout its history was built.

Material and Methods:

A semi-structured interview, applied to six pioneering professors in Brazilian Pediatric Dentistry, dealted with the model that followed the line of behavioral control and how this could be explained historically; on the differences between the Brazilian model and that of other schools, as well as a methodological analysis on the publications related to these models. Data were recorded and transcribed and then submitted to Bardin's qualitative content analysis Results: Three categories emerged from the analysis: "Formulation of a Brazilian theoretical model"; "Behavioral approach in Brazil and in other countries"; and "Analysis of publications under different behavioral approach models". The reports point to the construction of a model based on the sharing of professional experiences, the knowledge acquired through the literature and the compilation of techniques from different fields of knowledge/activity through idiosyncrasies, one's own abilities, such as the ease to deal with children, and personal experiences - leading to a non-scientific result. Methodological limitations in studies in this field have been reported.

Qualitative research on the subject is scarce and allows further knowledge of the pediatric dental practice at its interface with Psychology for a successful treatment of pediatric patients Conclusion:

The reports point to the possibilities and limitations of the formulation process of the behavioral approach model adopted by Brazilian pediatric dentistry throughout its history. The analyzed categories allowed a broad and deep overview of the historic and academic process of this important construction.