Question

A nurse is discussing free association as a therapeutic tool with a client who has major depressive disorder. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of this technique?

A. I will write down my dreams as soon as I wake up.
B. I may begin to associate my therapist with important people in my life.
C. I can learn to express myself in a nonaggressive manner.
D. I should say the first thing that comes to my mind.

Answer 1

Understanding of free association is indicated by the client's readiness to share immediate thoughts during therapy, such as "I should say the first thing that comes to my mind." It's not about writing down dreams or expressing oneself nonaggressively, but about revealing the unconscious through spontaneous conversation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The therapeutic technique of free association involves a client speaking freely to the therapist, vocalizing thoughts without censorship or judgment. This method aims to uncover the unconscious mind and bring to light the hidden aspects of internal conflicts or desires. Understanding free association would indicate that the client grasps the concept of sharing spontaneous thoughts and feelings.
One of the client statements that indicates an understanding of free association is, "I should say the first thing that comes to my mind." This method also can bring forth connections and feelings towards the therapist that mirror important relationships in the client's life, known as transference, which is a separate but related psychoanalytic concept.