When under stress, a client routinely uses an excessive amount of alcohol. Finding her drunk, her husband yells at the client about the chronic alcohol abuse. Which reaction should the nurse recognize as the use of the defense mechanism of denial?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Denial is the refusal to acknowledge an unpleasant reality. When the client says "I don't drink too much!" it is an example of denial as they are refusing to acknowledge their excessive alcohol use. Hiding liquor bottles (A) is an example of the defense mechanism of repression, yelling at their son (B) is an example of displacement, and burning dinner on purpose (C) is an example of passive-aggressive behavior.

When Under Stress, a Client Routinely Uses an Excessive Amount