Final answer:
A nurse might expect a 16-year-old boy with a history of sexual abuse to experience nightmares and flashbacks, as these are common symptoms of PTSD and other psychiatric disorders related to past trauma. The Correct Answer is Option .A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse caring for a 16-year-old boy with a history of being sexually abused might expect this adolescent to experience nightmares and flashbacks. The traumatic experiences from childhood sexual abuse often result in a range of psychological and emotional difficulties. It is common for survivors to present symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as re-experiencing the traumatic event through nightmares or flashbacks.
Research has shown that these individuals may also present psychiatric disorders, like depression or anxiety, and may suffer from cognitive and social challenges, impacting their overall well-being. Therefore, increased social activities, a sudden interest in outdoor sports, or improved academic performance are less likely to be observed behaviors in adolescents coping with the aftermath of sexual abuse.