Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has antisocial personality disorder and is receiving behavioral therapy through operant conditioning. Which of the following client behaviors indicates effectiveness of the therapy?

A) The client expresses empathy and remorse for past actions.
B) The client engages in impulsive and risky behaviors.
C) The client seeks approval and validation from others.
D) The client demonstrates improved decision-making skills.

Answer 1

The effectiveness of behavioral therapy through operant conditioning for a client with antisocial personality disorder can be assessed by observing improved decision-making skills.

Step-by-step explanation:

The effectiveness of behavioral therapy through operant conditioning in treating a client with antisocial personality disorder can be assessed by observing the client's behaviors. The correct answer is D) The client demonstrates improved decision-making skills.

Operant conditioning focuses on reinforcing desired behaviors and extinguishing unwanted behaviors through rewards and consequences. In the case of antisocial personality disorder, therapy aims to promote prosocial behaviors and reduce antisocial behaviors.

Option A is incorrect because expressing empathy and remorse for past actions may indicate a personal growth but not necessarily the effectiveness of the therapy. Option B is incorrect because engaging in impulsive and risky behaviors would suggest that the therapy is not effective. Option C is incorrect because seeking approval and validation from others does not specifically indicate the effectiveness of the therapy.