A nurse is discussing the three clusters of personality disorders. Which of the following personality disorders is part of cluster C

A. History of abuse: A history of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse is a significant risk factor for developing conduct disorder. Children who have experienced abuse may exhibit aggressive and defiant behaviours as a means of coping with their trauma.

B. Has more than three siblings: Having a large number of siblings alone is not directly associated with conduct disorder. Family dynamics and individual relationships are more relevant than the number of siblings.

C. A structured household environment: A structured household environment, typically characterized by consistent rules and supportive parenting, is generally protective against behavioural disorders like conduct disorder.

D. Diagnosis of many chronic medical illnesses: Chronic medical illnesses are not typically linked to conduct disorder. Risk factors for CD are more commonly related to psychosocial and environmental issues rather than medical conditions

A. The pharmacological action of Ritalin causes a decrease in appetite. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a stimulant medication commonly prescribed for ADHD. One of its well-documented side effects is appetite suppression, which can lead to weight loss. This is the most accurate and direct explanation for the weight loss observed in the adolescent client.

B. Side effects of Ritalin cause nausea; therefore, caloric intake is decreased. While nausea can occur with methylphenidate, it is not the primary reason for weight loss. The main mechanism is appetite suppression rather than a direct reduction in caloric intake due to nausea. This response is less accurate than option A.

C. Increased ability to concentrate allows the client to focus on activities rather than food: While methylphenidate can improve concentration, this explanation does not directly address the physiological cause of weight loss. It is the decrease in appetite due to the drug's effects on neurotransmitters that leads to weight loss, not the increased focus on activities .

D. Hyperactivity seen in ADHD causes increased caloric expenditure: Hyperactivity itself can lead to higher caloric expenditure, but this is not directly related to the weight loss caused by methylphenidate. The primary reason for the weight loss in this case is the appetite suppression due to the medication, not increased activity .