Which nursing intervention demonstrates the theory behind operant conditioning?
Demonstrating deep breathing techniques to a group of clients.
Showing the client how to be assertive without being aggressive.
Rewarding the client with a token for avoiding an argument with another client.
Providing a safe and non-judgmental environment for the client to express feelings.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Demonstrating deep breathing is an example of modeling or imitation, a technique rooted in Social Learning Theory, where a client learns new behaviors by observing and copying others. While therapeutic, this intervention does not involve the systematic use of consequences (reinforcement or punishment) to modify a behavior.
Choice B rationale
Showing a client assertiveness techniques is a form of skills training or psychoeducation, often grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which aims to change maladaptive thought patterns and develop effective communication. It focuses on instruction and practice, not on the contingent application of a consequence for an immediate behavioral response.
Choice C rationale
Operant conditioning is a type of associative learning where the frequency of a behavior is altered by its consequences. Rewarding the client with a token (a positive reinforcement or secondary reinforcer) immediately following the desired behavior (avoiding an argument) increases the likelihood that the client will repeat the non-aggressive behavior in the future.
Choice D rationale
Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment is a core principle of therapeutic communication and the therapeutic relationship, often associated with humanistic psychology and theories like that of Carl Rogers. While essential for building trust, it is a necessary setting condition and not an application of the specific behavioral principles of operant conditioning.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Its facilitation would increase neuronal activity, which is generally contrary to the desired calming and sedative effects of anxiolytic medications, which typically aim to reduce nervous system overactivity to manage anxiety.
Choice B rationale
Dopamine is a monoamine neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, and motor control. While involved in various psychiatric conditions, decreasing excess dopamine is the primary mechanism of action for some antipsychotic medications, not the typical mechanism for anxiolytics, which primarily target anxiety symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Serotonin, a monoamine, modulates mood, sleep, and appetite. Increasing its release or effects is the primary mechanism for some classes of antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are also used for anxiety, but is not the defining or typical mechanism of benzodiazepine anxiolytics.
Choice D rationale
γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Anxiolytic drugs, particularly the benzodiazepine class, exert their effect by binding to the GABA_A receptor. This binding enhances GABA's inhibitory effects, leading to hyperpolarization of the neuron, thereby reducing overall neuronal excitability and promoting an anxiolytic (calming) effect.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Resilience is the dynamic process encompassing positive adaptation and the ability to maintain mental and physical well-being despite experiencing adversity or stress. This statement demonstrates the core tenets of resilience: acknowledging the stressor ("Losing my job was hard") and expressing self-efficacy and a proactive approach to recovery by utilizing existing resources and capabilities ("my skills will help me get another one").
Choice B rationale
This statement reflects hopelessness and pessimism, characterized by a fixed negative outlook on future health despite intervention. Resilience involves maintaining optimism and the expectation of a positive eventual outcome even during hardship, which is directly contradicted by this statement's absolute belief in permanent poor health.
Choice C rationale
This statement illustrates a dependence on others for essential life tasks during a crisis, indicating a lack of resilience or a temporary decompensation under stress. While understandable, resilience involves the ability to manage and function autonomously or to marshal one's own resources to cope with significant loss.
Choice D rationale
This statement is an expression of altruism or parental sacrifice and does not directly relate to the individual's ability to bounce back from personal adversity. Resilience focuses on the self's capacity to adapt and overcome challenges, not on the prioritization of another's well-being over one's own needs or desires.
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