Author Question: The mother of an 8-year-old client being treated for conduct disorder says that the child often ... (Read 102 times)

piesebel · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

The mother of an 8-year-old client being treated for conduct disorder says that the child often threatens to kung-fu (kick and strike) the client's sister just like a favorite cartoon character does on TV.

Based on behavioral theory, the nurse would suspect that the child's aggressive behavior could best be reduced by: 1. Administering a medication that will increase the neurotransmitter serotonin.
2. Engaging the client and sister in family therapy.
3. Providing positive reinforcement when the child exhibits nonaggressive behavior.
4. Identifying and reframing the negative thoughts that the child has toward the sister.

Question 2

A client is standing in the hallway on the phone arguing with the caller. As the client becomes increasing loud and argumentative, an appropriate action for the nurse to take would be to:

1. Move the other clients away from the area providing the client privacy to continue the conversation.
2. Stand next to the client and say in a calm, firm voice, If you cannot lower your voice, you will lose your phone privileges indefinitely.
3. Walk up to the client and softly say, This conversation appears to be getting you upset, tell this person that you will talk later and come sit with me to discuss what is bothering you.
4. Do nothing. The client does not pose any danger as the person the client is angry with is not physically present.

javimendoza7 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

3
Rationale: Behavioral theory asserts that aggressive behavior is a learned response that tends to be repeated if reinforced. Watching violent TV programs serves as reinforcement. Lack of reinforcement or reinforcing other more desirable behaviors will help extinguish the aggressive behavior. Administration of medication suggests neurotransmitter abnormality as the origin for aggression supporting a biological, not behavioral, etiology. Thought reframing is a cognitive intervention used when it is believed that aggression stems from an individual's negative or distorted thought process. Interpersonal theorists pose that violence stems from poor family dynamics and recommend family therapy as an intervention.

Answer to Question 2

3
Rationale: An underlying goal of initial efforts at de-escalation is to assist the client in getting away from the aversive stimulus and to assess his or her ability to regain control. Encroaching upon the client's physical space and making a demand could escalate the aggression level; moreover, no rights can be restricted indefinitely. Allowing the client to continue to engage in escalating behavior could lead to violence.