Personality and Mood Disorders Q 35

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Which of the following information must be included for the family of a client diagnosed with a dependent personality disorder?

  

     A. Promote exercise programs

     B. Explore panic attacks

     C. Address coping skills

     D. Decrease aggressive outbursts

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Address coping skills.

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The family needs information about coping skills to help the client learn to handle stress. When the client is ready and interested, teach the client coping skills to help defuse tension and trouble feelings (e.g., anxiety reduction, assertiveness skills). Increasing skills help the client use healthier ways to defuse tensions and get needs met.

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Option A: Exercise is a health promotion activity for all clients. Clients with a dependent personality disorder wouldn’t need exercise promoted more than other people. Clients may benefit from coping skills training (e.g., anger management skills, emotional regulation skills, interpersonal skills). Provide referrals and/or involve professional experts.

Option B: They don’t tend to have panic attacks. Identify behavioral limits and behaviors that are expected. Client needs a clear structure. Expect frequent testing of limits initially. Maintaining limits can enhance feelings of safety in the client. Identify what the client sees as the behaviors and circumstances that lead to the hospitalization. Ascertain client’s understanding of behaviors and responsibility for own actions.

Option D: Clients with a dependent personality disorder don’t have aggressive outbursts; they tend to be passive and submit to others. When appropriate, try to understand underlying feelings prompting inappropriate behaviors. Often acting out behaviors stem from underlying feelings of anger, fear, shame, insecurity, loneliness, etc. Talking about feelings can lead to problem-solving and growth for the client.

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