Question

The nurse is teaching a client about the healthy use of ego defense mechanisms. An appropriate goal for this client would be

A) Reduce fear and protect self-esteem
B) Minimize anxiety and delay apprehension
C) Avoid conflict and leave unpleasant situations
D) Increase independence and communicate more often

Answer 1

Teaching a client about healthy ego defense mechanisms involves helping them minimize anxiety and maintain self-esteem through techniques that balance innate desires and moral standards without excessively distorting reality.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is teaching a client about the healthy use of ego defense mechanisms. An appropriate goal for this client would be to minimize anxiety and protect self-esteem. Freud's theory posits that ego defense mechanisms are unconscious protective behaviors aiming to reduce anxiety caused by the conflict between the id's desires and the superego's moral standards. Defense mechanisms work to distort reality in various ways, which sometimes can lead to psychological issues if overused. A strong ego adept at balancing these conflicts healthily using defense mechanisms contributes to a well-adjusted personality. Therefore, a healthy application of defense mechanisms aims to reduce fear and protect self-esteem without distorting reality excessively or avoiding issues that need to be addressed.