When a client with a personality disorder uses self-destructive behavior as a way of getting needs met, the staff observe the behavior closely because:
It is required to ensure the safety of the client and others.
It indulges the client’s wishes.
It provides an outlet for feelings of anger and frustration.
The client’s anger and anxiety will be decreased if staff assume responsibility for the client’s behavior.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
When a client with a personality disorder engages in self-destructive behavior, it is crucial for the staff to observe this behavior closely to ensure the safety of both the client and others around them. Self-destructive behaviors can include actions such as self-harm, substance abuse, or reckless activities that pose a significant risk to the individual’s well-being. By monitoring these behaviors, staff can intervene promptly to prevent harm and provide necessary support. Ensuring safety is a fundamental aspect of care in mental health settings, as it helps to stabilize the client and create a secure environment for their treatment and recover.
Choice B Reason:
Indulging the client’s wishes is not a recommended approach when dealing with self-destructive behavior. While it is important to understand and validate the client’s feelings, indulging their wishes can reinforce negative behaviors and hinder their progress towards healthier coping mechanisms. Instead, staff should focus on providing appropriate interventions and support that address the underlying issues contributing to the self-destructive behavior. This approach helps the client develop more constructive ways of meeting their needs and managing their emotions.
Choice C Reason:
While self-destructive behavior may provide a temporary outlet for feelings of anger and frustration, it is not a healthy or sustainable way to cope with these emotions. Encouraging or allowing such behavior can lead to further harm and exacerbate the client’s mental health issues. Staff should work with the client to identify and implement healthier coping strategies that effectively address their emotional needs without causing harm. This can include therapeutic interventions, counseling, and skills training to help the client manage their anger and frustration in more constructive ways.
Choice D Reason:
Assuming responsibility for the client’s behavior is not an effective way to reduce their anger and anxiety. In fact, it can create a dependency on staff and prevent the client from developing their own coping skills and sense of autonomy. It is important for staff to support the client in taking responsibility for their actions and learning how to manage their emotions independently. This empowerment is a key component of the therapeutic process and contributes to the client’s long-term recovery and well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: My boyfriend is too passionate for me
This statement indicates that the client is still placing some blame on their boyfriend’s behavior rather than recognizing the assault as a violation of their autonomy and consent. It suggests that the client may not fully understand that the responsibility for the assault lies with the perpetrator, not with their boyfriend’s level of passion. This mindset can hinder the healing process and indicates that the client may still be struggling with self-blame.
Choice B Reason: Next time I won’t wear such a sexy dress
This statement reflects a common misconception that the victim’s clothing or behavior can provoke sexual assault. It indicates that the client is still internalizing blame for the assault, believing that their attire was a contributing factor. This belief can be detrimental to recovery, as it perpetuates the myth that victims are responsible for the actions of their assailants.
Choice C Reason: I know it was not my fault
This statement is a strong indicator of progress in therapy. Recognizing that the assault was not their fault shows that the client is beginning to understand that the responsibility lies solely with the perpetrator. This realization is crucial for healing, as it helps to alleviate feelings of guilt and self-blame, allowing the client to move forward in their recovery.
Choice D Reason: I’ll just go on double dates from now on
This statement suggests that the client is still trying to find ways to prevent future assaults by changing their behavior rather than recognizing that the fault lies with the perpetrator. While taking precautions can be a part of feeling safe, it should not be based on the belief that the client could have prevented the assault by altering their actions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Grandiose sense of self-importance
This is the hallmark characteristic of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Individuals with NPD often have an exaggerated sense of their own importance and abilities. They may believe they are superior to others and expect special treatment. This grandiosity is a core feature of the disorder and is often accompanied by fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love.

Choice B Reason: Pattern of intense and chaotic relationships
While individuals with NPD may have problematic relationships, this characteristic is more commonly associated with borderline personality disorder. People with NPD may exploit relationships for personal gain, but their relationships are not typically described as chaotic in the same way as those with borderline personality disorder.
Choice C Reason: Submissive and clinging behaviors
Submissive and clinging behaviors are characteristic of dependent personality disorder, not narcissistic personality disorder. Individuals with NPD are more likely to exhibit domineering and controlling behaviors rather than submissive ones.
Choice D Reason: Odd beliefs and magical thinking
Odd beliefs and magical thinking are more characteristic of schizotypal personality disorder. While individuals with NPD may have grandiose fantasies, these do not typically include the bizarre or eccentric beliefs seen in schizotypal personality disorder.
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