During a group therapy session, a nurse observes several clients using multiple defense mechanisms.
Which of the following client statements demonstrates the use of maladaptive coping mechanisms?
“I mentally separate myself from distractions around me when I paint on canvas.”
“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 don’t care about work anymore since I was not given a promotion.”
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Mental separation from distractions during painting is a healthy coping mechanism, allowing for focus and mindfulness.
It falls under the adaptive defense mechanism of compartmentalization, which involves temporarily separating thoughts and emotions to manage stress effectively.
It doesn't deny or distort reality, but rather creates a temporary mental space for relaxation and creativity.
Choice B rationale:
Writing a short story about a heroic woman is a form of sublimation, channeling negative emotions into a productive and creative outlet.
It's a mature defense mechanism that allows for indirect expression of anger or frustration without causing harm to oneself or others.
It can lead to personal growth and insight, as it encourages reflection and exploration of emotions through storytelling.
Choice C rationale:
Inability to recall the scene of a traumatic event is likely a dissociative defense mechanism, protecting the individual from overwhelming psychological distress.
It's a common response to trauma, and while it may be maladaptive in the long term if it prevents processing the trauma, it serves a protective function in the acute phase.
It doesn't necessarily indicate a maladaptive coping style overall, but rather a specific response to a traumatic experience.
Choice D rationale:
Declaring disinterest in work after being denied a promotion exemplifies disengagement, a maladaptive coping mechanism involving withdrawal and apathy.
It reflects an inability to cope with disappointment or setbacks in a constructive way.
It can lead to social isolation, decreased motivation, and potentially depression or other mental health issues.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A rationale:
Going to another room and reading for 20 minutes when waking up at night is a recommended strategy for managing insomnia. This technique helps to break the cycle of lying in bed awake and worrying, which can worsen insomnia. Reading can be a relaxing activity that can help to promote sleepiness. It's important to choose a book that is not too stimulating and to avoid reading in bright light.
Choice B rationale:
Stopping napping in the afternoon is also a recommended strategy for managing insomnia. Napping can interfere with nighttime sleep by reducing sleep drive. It's best to avoid napping altogether or to limit naps to 30 minutes or less early in the afternoon.
Choice C rationale:
Watching television in the bedroom is not recommended for managing insomnia. The light from the television can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate sleep. The noise from the television can also be stimulating and make it difficult to fall asleep. It's best to avoid watching television in the bedroom or to turn off the television at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
Choice D rationale:
Eating the evening meal at least 3 hours before bed is generally a good practice for sleep hygiene. Eating too close to bedtime can lead to indigestion, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. It's best to avoid heavy, fatty, or spicy foods before bed.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Concrete thinking is a cognitive distortion characterized by a rigid and literal interpretation of events and experiences. Individuals with concrete thinking often struggle to grasp abstract concepts, metaphors, or multiple perspectives. They tend to view situations in black-and-white terms, with little room for nuance or ambiguity.
Statement A, "I am aware that each problem has only one solution," exemplifies concrete thinking in several ways:
Absolute language: The use of the phrase "each problem has only one solution" suggests a fixed and inflexible mindset. It implies that there is only one correct way to approach any given problem, disregarding the possibility of alternative solutions or perspectives.
Oversimplification: The statement reduces the complexity of problem-solving to a single, definitive answer. It fails to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of most problems, which often require creative thinking, flexibility, and consideration of multiple factors.
Lack of abstract
Intolerance of ambiguity: Concrete thinkers often experience discomfort with uncertainty or open-ended situations. They prefer clear-cut answers and definitive conclusions, which can lead to frustration and anxiety when faced with complex or ambiguous problems.
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