Question

The nurse is observing a caregiver minimize misbehavior when a child is playing with an excessively noisy toy. The nurse recognizes that further instruction is needed about the appropriate way to do this if the caregiver takes which action?

Option 1: Tells the child, "Put that toy down."
Option 2: Instructs the child, "Don't touch that toy."
Option 3: Interacts with the child in a quiet, calm voice.
Option 4: Offers the child a quiet toy in exchange for the noisy one.

Answer 1

The nurse would recognize the need for further instruction when the caregiver tells the child not to touch the noisy toy, as this is not a constructive way to manage misbehavior. Instead, offering alternatives and using calm communication are more effective strategies aligned with behavior modification techniques.

Step-by-step explanation:

If the nurse observes a caregiver instructing a child by saying "Don't touch that toy," this indicates that further instruction is needed in managing a child's misbehavior. This command is an exclusionary tactic that doesn't guide the child toward a desired behavior or provide a suitable alternative, which is less effective than positively reinforcing good behavior.

On the contrary, options such as speaking to the child in a quiet, calm voice or offering a quiet toy in exchange (positive reinforcement) are more appropriate strategies. These methods align with behavior modification techniques such as time-out and conditioning, by teaching the child what to do instead of just what not to do. Using simple and clear instructions that direct the child towards alternative, acceptable actions, and providing a suitable environment for the child to learn is important for positive behavioral change.