Your patient has a long history of alcohol abuse. You know that ...

[SGallaher96]

Your patient has a long history of alcohol abuse. You know that denial is a frequently used defense mechanism. Which statement is indicative of denial?
 
  A.
  My father was a drinker so I guess that led me to this.
  B.
  I can stop anytime I want, I just don't feel like it now.
  C.
  Drinking calms my nerves.
  D.
  I drink when my kids upset me.

Question 2

Which of the following statements from an alcoholic patient reflects a good understanding of his or her condition?
 
  A.
  I will stick to wine or beer from now on.
  B.
  I'll be OK if my wife will just stop nagging me.
  C.
  I plan to take my sobriety 1 day at a time.
  D.
  I won't need AA after I am sober for 1 year.

[mathjasmine]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
This response indicates the person is minimizing or not acknowledging that he or she has a problem. In the other responses the patient is acknowledging drinking but rationalizing the causes.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Responses A, B, and D all reinforce use of ineffective defense mechanisms, including denial, rationalization, and minimization. Response C reflects understanding of the disease as a lifelong struggle.

[SGallaher96]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[ricroger]

Great answer, keep it coming