During a group therapy session, a nurse notes several clients using multiple defense mechanisms. Which of the following client statements demonstrates the maladaptive use of regression?
"I don't care about work anymore since I was not given a promotion"
"I wrote a short story about a heroic woman when I was really mad at my boss."
" I still cannot remember the scene of my husband's car accident"
"I mentally separate myself from distractions around me when I paint on canvas. "
The Correct Answer is A
A. "I don't care about work anymore since I was not given a promotion":
This statement demonstrates the maladaptive use of regression. Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in the face of unacceptable thoughts or impulses. In this case, the client's response to not receiving a promotion is to display a lack of interest in work, which can be seen as regressing to a less mature coping mechanism.
B. "I wrote a short story about a heroic woman when I was really mad at my boss."
This statement describes the defense mechanism of sublimation rather than regression. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses or emotions into more socially acceptable activities or behaviors. In this case, the client channels their anger into writing a short story, which is a constructive and creative outlet.
C. "I still cannot remember the scene of my husband's car accident":
This statement does not demonstrate regression. Instead, it suggests repression, which involves the unconscious blocking of unpleasant memories, thoughts, or feelings from conscious awareness. The client's inability to remember the scene of the accident may indicate repression as a defense mechanism.
D. "I mentally separate myself from distractions around me when I paint on canvas."
This statement describes the defense mechanism of dissociation rather than regression. Dissociation involves a disconnection between a person's thoughts, identity, consciousness, or memory. In this case, the client mentally separates themselves from distractions while painting, which is a form of dissociative coping.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Closed posterior fontanel
By 6 months of age, the posterior fontanel typically closes. The posterior fontanel usually closes between 2 and 4 months of age. Therefore, a closed posterior fontanel is an expected finding at 6 months.
B. Lateral incisors
The eruption of lateral incisors typically occurs between 8 and 12 months of age. At 6 months, it is not expected for the infant to have erupted lateral incisors. Therefore, this finding would not be typical during a well-child visit at this age.
C. Uses thumb and index fingers in a pincer grasp
The development of the pincer grasp, where the infant can pick up small objects using the thumb and index finger, typically occurs around 9 to 12 months of age. While some infants may start to develop this skill around 6 months, it is more commonly seen later in the first year. Therefore, it is not a definitive finding at 6 months.
D. Sitting steadily without support
By 6 months of age, most infants can sit steadily without support. This is considered a developmental milestone that typically occurs around 6 months. Therefore, sitting steadily without support is an expected finding during a well-child visit at this age.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Who is lying about you and trying to poison you?": This response may come across as confrontational and may not effectively address the client's underlying fear or paranoia. It could potentially escalate the client's anxiety or reinforce their delusions by implying that the nurse believes the accusations are valid.
B. "You seem to be having very frightening thoughts.": This response acknowledges the client's experience without directly challenging or validating the content of their delusions. It conveys empathy and concern while also opening the door for further exploration of the client's feelings and experiences. By acknowledging the frightening nature of the client's thoughts, the nurse demonstrates understanding and provides an opportunity for therapeutic dialogue.
C. "You are mistaken. Nobody is lying about you or trying to poison you.": This response denies the client's reality and contradicts their experience, which can be invalidating and may cause the client to feel misunderstood or dismissed. It's important to avoid outright denial of the client's beliefs, as it can damage the therapeutic relationship and hinder effective communication.
D. "Why do you think you are being lied about and poisoned?": While this response seeks to explore the client's thoughts and feelings, it may be perceived as challenging or confrontational. It could unintentionally reinforce the client's delusions by inviting them to elaborate on their paranoid beliefs without first acknowledging the distress they are experiencing.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.