A 29-year-old married woman tells the PMHNP that she is not going to leave her abusive husband because he is really "a good man" deep down. "He was abused as a child and needs help. I just need to love him harder." This is an example of which defense mechanism?
Projection
Denial
Rationalization
Displacement
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to another person. For example, someone who is angry may accuse others of being hostile. This does not apply to the woman’s behavior, as she is not externalizing her own feelings.
Choice B reason: Denial is the refusal to accept reality or facts, often to avoid emotional pain. In this case, the woman is denying the seriousness and danger of her abusive relationship. She minimizes the abuse and reframes her husband’s behavior as a result of his own trauma, thereby avoiding the painful truth of her situation.
Choice C reason: Rationalization involves creating logical explanations to justify unacceptable behavior or feelings. While the woman’s statements may contain elements of rationalization, the dominant mechanism is denial—she is refusing to acknowledge the abuse as a threat to her safety.
Choice D reason: Displacement involves redirecting emotions from a threatening target to a safer one. For example, someone angry at their boss might yell at their spouse. This mechanism is not evident in the woman’s response.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: When a patient makes a credible threat of serious harm to an identifiable individual, the PMHNP has a duty to warn and protect. This includes notifying law enforcement to prevent potential violence. This action is supported by legal precedents such as the Tarasoff ruling and aligns with ethical obligations to protect third parties.
Choice B reason: While warning the potential victim may seem appropriate, it is not the most secure or legally sound method. Law enforcement is better equipped to assess and manage threats, and direct contact with the victim may pose risks or violate procedural safeguards.
Choice C reason: Indirectly warning the victim through a third party is unreliable and may delay intervention. It also risks breaching confidentiality without ensuring the threat is properly addressed.
Choice D reason: Doing nothing in the face of a credible threat violates both ethical and legal responsibilities. Confidentiality has limits, especially when public safety is at risk.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for parents is a valid and evidence-based intervention for managing ADHD. It helps parents develop strategies to reinforce positive behaviors and manage symptoms effectively.
Choice B reason: Family therapy and education are important components of ADHD management. Educating the family about the disorder and improving communication can enhance treatment outcomes and reduce stress.
Choice C reason: Dietary modifications, such as reducing artificial additives or exploring elimination diets, have been explored as adjunctive treatments. While evidence is mixed, they are considered valid nonpharmacologic options under clinical guidance.
Choice D reason: Treatment of learning disorders is important if comorbid conditions exist, but it is not a direct treatment for ADHD itself. Learning disorders may coexist with ADHD, but addressing them does not target core ADHD symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.
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