Visiting the Dentist Scenario

Visiting the Dentist Scenario
Many people don't go to the dentist because they are afraid. There's plenty to fear-pain, needles, gagging, feeling helpless, having personal space invaded, and being lectured for not brushing, flossing, or visiting often enough. Of course, avoiding the situation can make matters even worse when a patient does finally visit the dentist. Some patients, especially older ones, are reluctant to visit the dentist due to phobias based on a bad experience they had at the dentist when they were a child. However, the dental industry has evolved tremendously over the years, essentially eliminating any pain for patients. Many dentists are going even further to quell patients' fears by offering sedation, pain killers, entertainment, atmospherics, and spa services during a patient's visit. While sedation and pain killers have been offered for years, newer alternatives try to enhance the experience for patients. For example, some dentists offer entertainment options such as TVs, headphones with soothing music, or goggles for watching 3-D movies. Spa services include warm neck rolls and hand and foot massages, all in a Zen-like environment complete with soothing waterfalls and candles. The hope is that patients' anxiety will be minimized by creating a positive atmosphere that will result in the recommended twice-a-year visits.
-Refer to Visiting the Dentist Scenario. Older patients are more likely to have negative emotions associated with visiting the dentist as compared to younger patients. What kind of factor is age in this situation?

A) situational circumstance
B) moderating variable
C) visceral response
D) cognitive appraisal