A nurse educator is discussing community mental health with a group of nursing students. Based on the public health model, which of the following statements made by one of the students indicates correct information about primary prevention?

The correct answer is choice B: Is an aversion therapy that produces unpleasant consequences for undesirable behavior.

Choice A rationale:

Decreases or eliminates a behavior by introducing a more adaptive behavior that is incompatible with the unacceptable behavior. Choice A refers to the technique of "differential reinforcement," where an undesirable behavior is replaced by a more appropriate behavior. This technique involves reinforcing positive behaviors while ignoring or providing minimal attention to negative behaviors. It is not the same as covert sensitization.

Choice B rationale:

Is an aversion therapy that produces unpleasant consequences for undesirable behavior. Covert sensitization is a form of aversion therapy used to eliminate unwanted behaviors by associating them with unpleasant imagery or thoughts. It's based on the principle that if a person can associate a negative response with a certain behavior, they will be less likely to engage in that behavior. This technique is used for behaviors like addiction or certain compulsive behaviors.

Choice C rationale:

An aversive stimulus or punishment during which the client is removed from the environment where the unacceptable behavior is being exhibited. Choice C refers to "time-out," a technique used to decrease undesirable behaviors by removing the individual from the environment where the behavior is occurring. This is often used with children and involves giving them a brief break from a situation to help them calm down. It's not the same as covert sensitization.

Choice D rationale:

Relies on an individual's imagination rather than medication for unpleasant symptoms. Choice D is not directly related to covert sensitization. Covert sensitization involves creating a negative association with a behavior using mental imagery. It's not about relying on imagination instead of medication.

Choice A rationale:

Approaching the client frequently throughout the day for brief interactions might exacerbate the client's suspiciousness and discomfort. Individuals who are extremely suspicious may interpret frequent approaches as intrusive or manipulative, leading to increased agitation or withdrawal.

Choice B rationale:

Disclosing personal information to the client in an attempt to demonstrate approachability is not recommended. Sharing personal information can blur professional boundaries and may not necessarily address the client's suspicion. It's important to build trust gradually through consistent, respectful, and professional interactions.

Choice C rationale:

Adopting a neutral attitude when providing care is appropriate because it helps create a non-threatening environment. Individuals who are suspicious may interpret overly friendly or emotionally charged behavior as insincere or manipulative. A neutral and respectful approach allows the client to feel more comfortable and safe in the nurse's presence.

Choice D rationale:

Waiting for the client to initiate interaction may not be effective in establishing a therapeutic relationship. Extremely suspicious clients might be hesitant to initiate interactions due to their mistrust. Nurses should take the initiative to approach clients with suspicion in a respectful and neutral manner to gradually build rapport and trust.