Therapeutic Comm Q 32
After assertiveness training, a formerly passive client appropriately confronts a peer in group therapy. The group leader states, “I’m so proud of you for being assertive. You are so good!” Which communication technique has the leader employed?
A. The non-therapeutic technique of giving approval
B. The non-therapeutic technique of interpreting
C. The therapeutic technique of presenting reality
D. The therapeutic technique of making observations
Correct Answer: A. The non-therapeutic technique of giving approval.
The group leader has employed the non-therapeutic technique of giving approval. Giving approval implies that the nurse has the right to pass judgment on whether the client’s ideas or behaviors are “good” or “bad.” This creates a conditional acceptance of the client.
Option B: Interpreting is making conscious that which is unconscious to the client; telling the client the meaning of his or her experience. The client’s thoughts and feelings are his own, not to be interpreted by the nurse or for hidden meaning.
Option C: Presenting reality refers to offering for consideration that which is real. When it is obvious that the client is misinterpreting reality, the nurse can indicate what is real. The nurse does this by calmly and quietly expressing the nurse’s perceptions or the facts not by way of arguing with the client or belittling his experience.
Option D: Making observations refers to verbalizing what the nurse perceives. Sometimes clients cannot verbalize or make themselves understood. Or the client may not be ready to talk.