A nurse is counseling a client for the management of anxiety. The client is consistently late for appointments and ignores household chores. The client states, "I'm just too stressed. I need someone to take care of me." The nurse identifies this behavior as an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?
Repression
Introjection
Dissociation
Regression
The Correct Answer is D
A. Repression: Repression involves unconsciously pushing unwanted thoughts, memories, or feelings out of conscious awareness. It involves burying distressing emotions or memories deep in the unconscious mind to avoid dealing with them consciously. In this scenario, the client's behavior does not suggest the repression of any specific thoughts or memories but rather a coping mechanism related to their current stress and anxiety.
B. Introjection: Introjection occurs when an individual internalizes the values, beliefs, or attitudes of others as if they were their own. It involves incorporating external standards or influences into one's own identity. While introjection may contribute to the client's behavior indirectly by influencing their beliefs about needing external support, the primary defense mechanism at play in this scenario is regression.
C. Dissociation: Dissociation involves a disruption in the integration of consciousness, memory, identity, or perception of the environment. It often manifests as a detachment from reality or a sense of being disconnected from oneself or the surrounding environment. While dissociation may occur in response to severe stress or trauma, it typically involves more extreme symptoms than those described by the client in this scenario.
D. Regression: Regression involves reverting to earlier, less mature behaviors or stages of development in response to stress or anxiety. It reflects a retreat to a more comfortable or familiar state in an attempt to cope with overwhelming emotions or situations. In this scenario, the client's statement about needing someone to take care of them suggests a desire to return to a state of dependency, which is characteristic of regression as a defense mechanism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A)"I don't like it when you address me with that tone of voice.": This is the most therapeutic response. It addresses the inappropriate behavior (the rude tone) in a calm and direct manner, setting a clear boundary while remaining respectful. By focusing on the behavior, the nurse can maintain professionalism and avoid escalating the situation. This response also encourages the client to recognize the impact of their behavior without feeling attacked.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Why are you feeling so down?": This response may come across as intrusive and may not be well-received by the client. It puts pressure on the client to provide an explanation for their feelings, which they may not be ready or willing to do at that moment.
B. "I understand. I've felt like that before, too": While expressing empathy can be helpful, it's important for the nurse to validate the client's current feelings without making assumptions about their own experiences. This response could inadvertently shift the focus away from the client's feelings and onto the nurse's experiences.
C. "I’ll just sit here with you for a few minutes then.": This is the best response as it acknowledges the client's feelings, respects their desire for solitude, and offers the nurse's presence as a source of support without pressure to talk. Simply being present with the client demonstrates empathy and provides comfort during a difficult time.
D. "It might help you feel better if you talk about it": While encouraging the client to talk about their feelings can be beneficial in some situations, it's essential to respect the client's autonomy and readiness to engage in conversation. In this case, the client has expressed a desire not to talk, so offering unsolicited advice to talk may feel dismissive of their feelings.
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.