The nurse is caring for a client with paranoid personality disorder. When the nurse directs the client to go to the dining room for dinner, the client says, "And eat that poisonous food? You better not make me go anywhere near that room." Which statement best explains the client's behavior?

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Individuals with paranoid personality disorder have a pervasive distrust and suspicion of others; they believe that people's motives are malicious and assume that others are out to exploit, harm, or deceive them. These thoughts permeate every aspect of their lives and interfere with their relationships. Individuals with paranoid personality disorder are usually difficult to get along with as they may express their suspicion and hostility by arguing, complaining, making sarcastic comments, or being stubborn. Because these clients do not trust others, they have a strong need to be self-sufficient and maintain a high degree of control over their environment. (Option A) This statement best describes an individual with antisocial personality disorder. (Option C) Clients with paranoid personality disorder do not have psychotic symptoms. (Option D) Clients with paranoid personality disorder will usually not be able to control their anger when confronted with a real or imagined threat. Educational objective: Paranoid personality disorder is characterized by distrust and suspicion of others. Because these clients do not trust other people, they have an intense need to control them and their environment.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with Paranoid Personality