Question

A 19 year-old client is paralyzed in a car accident. Which statement used by the client would indicate to the nurse that the client was using the mechanism of "suppression"?

A) "I don't remember anything about what happened to me."
B) "I'd rather not talk about it right now."
C) "It's all the other guy's fault! He was going too fast."
D) "My mother is heartbroken about this."

Answer 1

The statement indicating suppression is 'I'd rather not talk about it right now.' as it reflects a conscious decision to avoid the subject.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement by the 19-year-old client that would indicate the use of the mechanism of "suppression" is "I'd rather not talk about it right now."

Suppression involves the conscious decision to delay paying attention to an emotion or need in order to cope with the present reality. It is different from repression, which is an unconscious process. Suppression can be a useful short-term coping strategy, although it is important for the individual eventually to acknowledge and address the underlying thoughts and feelings.