A nurse is admitting a client to an alcohol abuse program. The client states, "I'm here because of my boss.
It was part of my job to go to parties and drink with clients." The client's statement is an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?
Suppression.
Rationalization.
Reaction-formation.
Compensation.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Suppression involves the conscious, intentional effort to push unwanted thoughts, feelings, or memories out of awareness. It is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not actively trying to forget or avoid their alcohol use. Instead, they are attempting to justify it.
Choice B Rationale:
Rationalization is the defense mechanism most clearly demonstrated in the client's statement. It involves creating false but seemingly logical reasons to justify unacceptable behavior or feelings. The client is attributing their alcohol use to external factors (their boss and job requirements) rather than taking responsibility for their own choices and actions. This allows them to avoid confronting the reality of their addiction and the need for change.
Key characteristics of rationalization that align with the client's statement:
Externalizing blame: The client places responsibility for their drinking on their boss and job, rather than acknowledging their own agency.
Minimizing the problem: The client suggests that their drinking was merely a necessary part of their job, downplaying the extent of their alcohol use and its negative consequences.
Avoiding negative emotions: By shifting blame, the client protects themselves from feelings of guilt, shame, and responsibility associated with their addiction.
Choice C Rationale:
Reaction formation involves behaving in a way that is opposite to one's true feelings or impulses. This is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not expressing overly negative or critical attitudes towards alcohol. Instead, they are attempting to justify their use of it.
Choice D Rationale:
Compensation involves overemphasizing a desirable trait or behavior to make up for a perceived weakness or deficiency. This is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not highlighting any positive qualities or accomplishments to offset their alcohol use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["2"]
Explanation
Step 1: Identify the required dose of lithium, which is 300 mg.
Step 2: Identify the available dose of lithium carbonate, which is 150 mg per capsule.
Step 3: Calculate the number of capsules needed using the formula: Number of capsules = Required dose ÷ Available dose.
Numberofcapsules=300 mg150 mg/capsule
\(Number\ of\ capsules = {300\ mg \over 150\ mg/capsule}\)
Step 4: Solve the equation.
Numberofcapsules=2 capsulesNumberofcapsules=2capsules
So, the nurse should administer 2 capsules per dose to achieve the required lithium dose of 300 mg.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Anxiety reduction is the core motivation for ritualistic behaviors in OCD. Individuals with OCD experience intrusive, distressing thoughts (obsessions) that trigger intense anxiety. To neutralize this anxiety, they engage in repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that provide temporary relief.
The relief is often short-lived, leading to a cycle of obsessions and compulsions. This cycle can become debilitating and significantly impair daily functioning.
Research supports the anxiety-reduction model of OCD. Studies have shown that engaging in compulsions reduces anxiety in individuals with OCD, both subjectively and physiologically.
Neuroimaging studies have also demonstrated that ritualistic behaviors activate brain regions involved in anxiety and fear processing. This suggests that compulsions have a direct effect on the brain's anxiety circuitry.
Choice B rationale:
Sexual satisfaction is not a typical motivation for ritualistic behaviors in OCD. While some compulsions may have a sexual component (e.g., checking for arousal), the primary goal is to reduce anxiety, not to achieve sexual gratification.
Choice C rationale:
Feelings of shame may be associated with OCD, but they are not the primary driving force behind ritualistic behaviors. Shame often arises from the content of obsessions (e.g., thoughts about contamination, harm, or taboo subjects) or the perceived social stigma of OCD. However, the urge to perform compulsions stems from the need to alleviate anxiety, not to decrease shame.
Choice D rationale:
Boosting self-esteem is not a common motivation for ritualistic behaviors in OCD. In fact, many individuals with OCD experience low self-esteem due to the impact of the disorder on their lives. Compulsions may provide a temporary sense of control or mastery, but they do not typically lead to lasting improvements in self-esteem.
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