For the past three evenings, shortly after their arrival in the hospital unit, the parents of a 14-year-old daughter begin to argue about the cost of the hospitalization and the time required to come to the hospital.The patient begins to cry and complains about her abdominal pain.What role is the patient assuming?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is assuming the role of a scapegoat, where the stress and arguments between the parents about external issues (cost and time of hospitalization) are indirectly causing the patient to feel responsible or to bear the emotional burden, leading to her crying and complaining about her pain. This diverts the focus from the parents' conflict to the patient's condition.

For the Past Three Evenings, Shortly After Their Arrival in the Hospital