The nurse supervises a novice nurse interviewing a client with a borderline personality disorder. Which client statement would demonstrate the client using transference?
The nurse supervises a novice nurse interviewing a client with a borderline personality disorder. Which client statement would demonstrate the client using transference?
A. "You are just like my mother, bothering me with these questions."
[63%]
B. "Instead of breaking objects, I have joined a kickboxing class."
[23%]
C. "I cannot be an alcoholic because I still go to work every day."
[4%]
D. "I told my boyfriend if he leaves me, I will kill myself."
[10%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Therapeutic Communication
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice A is correct. This is an example of transference. In transference, the client's unconscious feelings toward a healthcare worker come to the surface that originally stems from someone else. For instance, if a client starts to have hostility towards the healthcare worker because they reminds them of a family member with whom they had (or have) a negative relationship. The client bringing up their mother and pinning it on the healthcare worker exemplifies transference.
Choice B is incorrect. The client's choice to join a kickboxing class instead of engaging in destructive behavior reflects the use of sublimation, which is a positive defense mechanism. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses or emotions into more socially acceptable and constructive activities.
Choice C is incorrect. The client's denial of alcoholism is a reflection of the defense mechanism of denial, where individuals refuse to acknowledge the reality of a situation as a way to cope with emotional conflicts or distress.
Choice D is incorrect. This statement reflects a form of manipulation, a behavior that can be associated with borderline personality disorder. Individuals with this disorder may use manipulative tactics to control or influence others in their relationships.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
Personality Disorders
32.3 Major Psychiatric Disorders
Additional Info
✓ Transference refers to the client's unconscious feelings toward a healthcare worker originally felt in childhood for a significant other. The client may say something like, “You remind me exactly of my brother.”
✓ Countertransference refers to unconscious feelings that the healthcare worker has toward the client. For instance, if the client reminds you of someone you do not like, you may unconsciously react as if the client were that individual.
✓ Emphasize the importance of building therapeutic relationships with clients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. Establishing trust and rapport is crucial in facilitating effective communication and understanding the client's unique challenges.
✓ Encourage the novice nurse to validate the client's feelings and emotions. Individuals with borderline personality disorder may experience intense emotions, and acknowledging these feelings can contribute to a more supportive therapeutic environment.
