A mother is concerned because her 13-year-old daughter comes home happy one day and sad the next. The girl also argues with her younger sister more than she did in the past, and does not like participating in family activities anymore. Which of the following is the best initial response from the nurse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although dramatic swings in affect can be a warning sign for suicide, and withdrawal can be a sign of substance abuse, additional information is required before suggesting a diagnosis. Often, mood swings and spending more time with peers and less time with the family is normal adolescent behavior during this period of rapid change in physical, psychosocial, spiritual, moral, and cognitive growth. Parents and teenagers should be aware of and prepared for these changes.

A Mother Is Concerned Because Her 13-Year-Old Daughter Comes Home