The client tells the nurse that she does not wish to see her mother-in-law during this hospitalization because she does not like her.When the client's husband and her mother-in-law visit,the client is very cordial and acts happy to see both visitors.The nurse recognizes that this client may be using which defense mechanism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client is using the defense mechanism of reaction formation, where she is demonstrating behavior that is opposite to what she truly feels. Despite not liking her mother-in-law, the client is cordial and happy when she visits, which may be a way of hiding her true emotions.

The Client Tells the Nurse That She Does Not Wish