An adolescent diagnosed with a conduct disorder stole and wrecked ...

[abern]

An adolescent diagnosed with a conduct disorder stole and wrecked a neighbor's motorcycle. Afterward, the adolescent was confronted about the behavior but expressed no remorse.
 
  Which variation in the central nervous system best explains the adolescent's reaction?
 
  a. Serotonin dysregulation and increased testosterone activity impair one's capacity for remorse.
  b. Increased neuron destruction in the hippocampus results in decreased abilities to conform to social rules.
  c. Reduced gray matter in the cortex and dysfunction of the amygdala results in decreased feelings of empathy.
  d. Disturbances in the occipital lobe reduce sensations that help an individual clearly visualize the consequences of behavior.

Question 2

An adolescent was recently diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder. The parents say to the nurse, Isn't there some medication that will help with this problem? Select the nurse's best response.
 
  a. There are no medications to treat this problem. This diagnosis is behavioral in nature.
  b. It's a common misconception that there is a medication available to treat every health problem.
  c. Medication is usually not prescribed for this problem. Let's discuss some behavioral strategies you can use.
  d. There are many medications that will help your child manage aggression and destructiveness. The health care provider will discuss them with you.

[kjo;oj]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Adolescents with conduct disorder have been found to have significantly reduced gray matter bilaterally in the anterior insulate cortex and the amygdala. This reduction may be related to aggressive behavior and deficits of empathy. The less gray matter in these regions of the brain, the less likely adolescents are to feel remorse for their actions or victims. People with intermittent explosive disorder may have differences in serotonin regulation in the brain and higher levels of testosterone. Neuron destruction in the hippocampus is associated with memory deficits. The occipital lobe is involved with visual stimuli but not the processing of emotions.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The parents are seeking a quick solution. Medications are generally not indicated for oppositional defiant disorder. Comorbid conditions that increase defiant symptoms, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, should be managed with medication, but no comorbid problem is identified in the question. The nurse should give information on helpful strategies to manage the adolescent's behavior.

[abern]

TY

[kjo;oj]

Happy to Help