Author Question: A parent asks the nurse about negativism in toddlers. Which is the most appropriate recommendation? ... (Read 41 times)

bobbie · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A parent asks the nurse about negativism in toddlers. Which is the most appropriate recommendation?

a. Punish the child.
b. Provide more attention.
c. Ask child not always to say no.
d. Reduce the opportunities for a no answer.

Question 2

A toddler's parent asks the nurse for suggestions on dealing with temper tantrums. Which is the most appropriate recommendation?

a. Punish the child.
b. Leave the child alone until the tantrum is over.
c. Remain close by the child but without eye contact.
d. Explain to child that this is wrong.

eliasc0401 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
The nurse should suggest to the parent that questions be phrased with realistic choices rather than yes or no answers. This provides the toddler with a sense of control and reduces the opportunity for negativism. Negativism is not an indication of stubbornness or insolence and should not be punished. The negativism is not a function of attention; the child is testing limits to gain an understanding of the world. The toddler is too young to be asked to not always say no.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The parent should be told that the best way to deal with temper tantrums is to ignore the behaviors, provided that the actions are not dangerous to the child. Tantrums are common in toddlers as the child becomes more independent and overwhelmed by increasingly complex tasks. The parents and caregivers need to have consistent and developmentally appropriate expectations. Punishment and explanations will not be beneficial. The parent's presence is necessary both for safety and to provide a feeling of control and security to the child when the tantrum is over.