The mother of a six-year-old boy who has recently had surgery for the removal of his tonsils and adenoids complains that he has begun sucking his thumb again. The nurse caring for the child should assure the mother that this is a normal response for a child who has undergone surgery and that it is a coping mechanism that children sometimes use called:
A)Repression.
B)Rationalization.
C)Fantasy.
D)Regression.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Regression is a defense mechanism in which a person returns to an earlier or less mature stage of psychological development. This can occur during times of stress or anxiety, such as after surgery. Thumb-sucking is a common regression for young children and is a way for them to cope with the stress of the surgery. It is important for the nurse to reassure the mother that this behavior is normal and temporary. Repression, rationalization, and fantasy are not relevant to this situation.

The Mother of a Six-Year-Old Boy Who Has Recently Had