Which statement describes the etiology of somatization disorder from a learning theory perspective?
Studies have shown that there is an increase in the predisposition of somatization disorder in first-degree relatives.
Positive reinforcement of somatic symptoms encourages behaviors to continue.
A client views self as “bad,” and considers physical suffering as deserved and required for atonement.
The use of physical symptoms is a response to repressed severe anxiety.
The Correct Answer is B
Learning theory explains somatization disorder as a behavior shaped by reinforcement, conditioning, and modeling. When physical symptoms receive attention, care, or relief from responsibilities, they are unintentionally reinforced. This positive reinforcement increases the likelihood of symptom persistence. The behavior is not consciously produced but maintained through environmental responses that reward illness behavior.
Rationale for correct answers
2. Reinforcement of symptoms through attention or relief from duties supports the learning theory view that behavior is shaped by external rewards.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1. Genetic predisposition reflects a biological model, not learning theory.
3. Viewing oneself as “bad” aligns with psychodynamic theory, involving unconscious guilt and atonement.
4. Repression of anxiety is a psychodynamic explanation, not based on behavioral reinforcement.
Take Home Points
- Learning theory attributes somatization to reinforcement of illness behaviors.
- Attention and relief from responsibilities can unintentionally perpetuate symptoms.
- Differentiating behavioral from psychodynamic and biological models is essential for targeted intervention.
- Nursing care must reduce reinforcement and promote adaptive coping strategies.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","F"]
Explanation
Secondary gainrefers to the indirect benefits a person receives from being ill, which may unconsciously reinforce the persistence of symptoms. In somatic symptom disorder, these gains can include attention, avoidance, and relieffrom responsibilities or emotional distress. While the symptoms are not intentionally produced, the reinforcement from these gains can perpetuate the illness behavior and complicate recovery.
Rationale for correct answers
1.Acceptable absence from work provides avoidanceof stressors and responsibilities, reinforcing the sick role and reducing external pressure.
2.Freedom from chores offers relieffrom daily demands, which may unconsciously reinforce symptom persistence.
3.Increased attention from family satisfies emotional needs, reinforcing the behavior through interpersonal validation.
4.Provision of care by others enhances dependency, which may be comforting and reduce anxiety, reinforcing illness behavior.
6.Temporary relief of anxiety occurs when physical symptoms distract from emotional conflict, serving as an unconscious coping mechanism.
Rationale for incorrect answers
5.Resolution of family conflict is not a typical secondary gain; it implies problem-solving, not reinforcement of illness behavior.
Take Home Points
- Secondary gain in somatic symptom disorder includes avoidance of stressors and increased interpersonal attention.
- These gains are unconscious and can perpetuate symptom expression.
- Nurses must recognize secondary gain to guide therapeutic interventions.
- Addressing emotional needs and promoting adaptive coping reduces reliance on illness behavior.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Ineffective copingrelated to psychological pain and medication dependence reflects poor emotional regulation and reliance on external reliefrather than internal strategies. Nursing goals should focus on developing adaptive coping, reducing reliance on pharmacologic interventions, and improving emotional resilience. Behavioral and cognitive strategies are central to long-term improvement.
Rationale for correct answers
2.Learning and practicing coping skills directly addresses the core issueof ineffective coping and supports functional recoverywithout medication dependence.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1.Participation in self-care is important but does not specifically target copingor medication reliance.
3.Improved self-esteem is beneficial but does not directly address coping mechanismsor pain management.
4.Replacing manipulative behaviors may reflect progress but lacks specificity in addressing copingand psychological pain.
Take Home Points
- Effective coping skills are the cornerstone of managing psychological pain without medication dependence.
- Outcome criteria must directly address the nursing diagnosis to guide measurable progress.
- Self-esteem and behavior change are secondary outcomes, not primary goals in this context.
- Nursing care should promote emotional regulation and reduce reliance on pharmacologic relief.
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