A nurse is caring for a client who has autism spectrum disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

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.

A. Spinning a toy repetitively: Repetitive behaviors, such as spinning objects or repetitive movements, are common in children with ASD. These behaviors often serve as self-stimulatory or soothing activities and may be used as a way to cope with sensory stimulation or to seek sensory input.

B. Consistent limit testing: While limit testing can occur in children with ASD, it is not a specific hallmark of the disorder. Limit testing is more commonly associated with typical developmental behavior or oppositional defiant disorder rather than ASD.

C. Ritualistic behavior: Children with ASD often engage in ritualistic or repetitive behaviors, such as adhering to strict routines or rituals, having specific preferences for how objects are arranged, or engaging in repetitive movements or actions. These behaviors can provide a sense of predictability and control in their environment.

D. Short attention span: Many children with ASD have difficulty sustaining attention and may exhibit a short attention span, particularly in tasks that do not align with their specific interests or preferences. However, attention span can vary widely among children with ASD, and some may have exceptional focus on particular activities or topics of interest.

E. Delayed language development: Delayed language development is a common characteristic of ASD. Some children with ASD may experience delays in acquiring spoken language skills, exhibit echolalia (repetition of words or phrases), or have difficulty with expressive and receptive language. However, it's important to note that language development can vary significantly among individuals with ASD, and some may have average or even advanced language skills.