Question

A nurse is counseling an adolescent who has Anorexia Nervosa and reports excessive laxative use and a fear of gaining weight. The client states, "I'm so fat I can't even stand to look at myself." Which of the following therapeutic responses demonstrates the nurse's use of summarizing?

Option 1: "You're struggling with body image, aren't you?"
Option 2: "It seems like you're feeling overwhelmed and unhappy with your appearance."
Option 3: "Have you considered exploring healthier coping mechanisms?"
Option 4: "Why do you think you feel this way about your body?"

Answer 1

The therapeutic response that demonstrates the nurse's use of summarizing is the statement that acknowledges the adolescent's feelings of being overwhelmed and unhappy with their appearance. So the correct option is Option 2: 'It seems like you're feeling overwhelmed and unhappy with your appearance.'

Step-by-step explanation:

The therapeutic response that demonstrates the nurse's use of summarizing in this scenario is option 2: 'It seems like you're feeling overwhelmed and unhappy with your appearance.' Summarizing is a therapeutic technique that involves condensing and restating the client's thoughts or feelings to ensure understanding and facilitate further exploration. In this response, the nurse paraphrases the client's statement and accurately captures their feelings and concerns about their appearance and body image.