Personality and Mood Disorders Q 95
Nurse Aldrich is working with the family of Mary Ann, a client with a personality disorder. Which of the following should Nurse Aldrich encourage the family members to work on?
A. Avoiding direct expressions of problems with family.
B. Changing Mary Ann's problem behaviors.
C. Improving self-functioning.
D. Supporting Mary Ann's defenses.
Correct Answer: C. Improving self-functioning.
Family members typically benefit from working on ways to improve self-functioning. This facilitates ownership of problems among individuals involved in ongoing relationship difficulties. Keep goals very realistic and go in small steps. There are no overnight successes with people with personality disorders.
Option A: The direct expression of problems is helpful and therefore should not be avoided. When the client is ready and interested, teach client coping skills to help defuse tension and trouble feelings (e.g., anxiety reduction, assertiveness skills).
Option B: It would be impossible to change the client’s behavior; encouraging family members to do so would frustrate them. Give the client positive attention when behaviors are appropriate and productive. Avoid giving any attention (when possible and not dangerous to self or others) when client’s behaviors are inappropriate.
Option D: The client’s defenses are likely to blame others for problems; consequently, supporting his blaming others is not helpful. Use assertiveness when setting limits on client’s unreasonable demands for attention and time.