Question

A nurse is admitting a client who has alcohol use disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates that the client is using denial as a defense mechanism?

A) I only drink occasionally, it's not a big deal.
B) I know I drink a lot, but I can stop whenever I want.
C) Drinking helps me relax and cope with stress.
D) Everyone around me drinks, so it's normal for me too.

Answer 1

The client is using denial as a defense mechanism.

Step-by-step explanation:

Denial is a defense mechanism commonly seen in individuals with alcohol use disorder. It involves the refusal to acknowledge the severity or existence of a problem. From the given options, option A, "I only drink occasionally, it's not a big deal", indicates that the client is using denial. The client is downplaying the problem by minimizing their alcohol consumption. This is a common defense mechanism used by individuals with alcohol use disorder.

Answer 2

The statement that indicates the use of denial as a defense mechanism is: "I only drink occasionally, it's not a big deal." This response minimizes the severity of the alcohol use disorder and reflects the individual's reluctance to acknowledge the extent of the problem.

A) I only drink occasionally, it's not a big deal.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement "I only drink occasionally, it's not a big deal" reflects the defense mechanism of denial in the context of alcohol use disorder. Denial is a psychological process wherein individuals refuse to accept or acknowledge the reality of a situation to avoid dealing with the emotional distress it may cause. In this case, the individual is downplaying the frequency and significance of their alcohol consumption. By stating that they only drink occasionally and asserting that it's not a big deal, the individual is creating a psychological barrier against recognizing the potential severity of their alcohol use.

This form of denial serves as a coping strategy, allowing the person to maintain a sense of normalcy and avoid confronting the potential negative consequences of their drinking behavior. It can hinder the individual from seeking help or acknowledging the need for intervention. Healthcare professionals, such as nurses admitting clients with alcohol use disorder, need to be aware of such defense mechanisms to effectively communicate with and support individuals in addressing their substance use issues. Understanding the role of denial can inform the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at breaking through this defense mechanism and facilitating the client's acceptance of their condition for effective treatment and recovery.