Question

Delusions of grandeur are associated with low self-esteem. Which of the following answers explains the purpose of the client's delusions?

1) Answer A: Conversion is expressed as sensory or motor deficits.
2) Answer B: It can cause an increase in the client's delusions.
3) Answer C: It helps the client to feel more important and superior.
4) Answer D: It can lead to low self-esteem.

Answer 1

Delusions of grandeur are often a compensatory mechanism for low self-esteem, functioning as a defense mechanism to make the individual feel more important and superior. Answer C most accurately explains the purpose of these delusions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Delusions of grandeur are a psychiatric phenomenon where an individual has an inflated sense of self-importance and often believes they have special powers, talents, or abilities. In a therapeutic context, these delusions can be viewed as a compensatory mechanism for low self-esteem. Although seemingly paradoxical, these grandiose delusions can serve a protective role in an individual's psyche by providing a sense of importance that they may feel is lacking.

To address the posed question, Answer C: It helps the client to feel more important and superior, is the most accurate explanation of the purpose of a client's delusions of grandeur. This is because the delusions can act as a defense mechanism to counteract feelings of low self-worth by creating an unrealistic view of oneself as being exceptionally powerful or capable.

It is important to recognize that delusions of grandeur can be a symptom of certain psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, and therefore must be evaluated and treated within the context of the individual's overall mental health.