In a family that is in the life cycle stage “family with adolescents," which changes must occur for the family to proceed developmentally?

Choice A reason: This response directly addresses the client’s unsafe idea of doubling the dose. Herbal remedies, including St. John’s wort, can cause toxicity if taken in excess. Risks include serotonin syndrome, photosensitivity, and drug interactions. This reply is therapeutic and safety-focused.

Choice B reason: While brand quality matters, this does not address the client’s unsafe dosing behavior. It shifts focus away from the immediate risk.

Choice C reason: Herbal medicines can cause adverse reactions, but this statement is overly general and does not specifically address the client’s plan to increase dosage.

Choice D reason: FDA regulation is limited for herbal remedies, but this fact does not directly address the client’s unsafe dosing practice. It provides information but lacks therapeutic guidance.

Choice A reason: Antisocial traits involve behaviors such as disregard for others’ rights, deceitfulness, or aggression. Getting a tattoo in response to peer pressure does not necessarily indicate antisocial personality traits. It is more reflective of identity formation and family dynamics rather than pathology.

Choice B reason: Cutting self-off emotionally refers to distancing oneself completely from family relationships, often by avoiding contact or severing ties. The teenager’s action does not demonstrate emotional cutoff but rather an attempt to assert individuality while still remaining connected to the family system.

Choice C reason: Differentiation of self is a central concept in Bowen’s theory. It refers to the ability to establish one’s own identity and beliefs while remaining emotionally connected to the family. The teenager’s tattoo represents an effort to assert independence and individuality, even in defiance of parental wishes, which aligns with differentiation.

Choice D reason: Triangulation occurs when a third party is drawn into a conflict between two individuals to reduce tension. The teenager’s tattoo decision does not involve pulling another person into the parental-child conflict, so triangulation is not applicable.