The father of a child recently diagnosed with developmental delay is very rude and hostile toward the nurses.This father was cooperative during the child's evaluation a month ago.What is the best explanation for this change in parental behavior?
A) The father is exhibiting symptoms of a psychiatric illness.
B) The father may be abusing the child.
C) The father is resentful of the time he is missing from work for this appointment.
D) The father is experiencing a symptom of grief.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

After a child is diagnosed with a developmental delay,families typically experience a cycle of grieving that is repeated when developmental milestones are not met.One cannot determine that a parent is exhibiting symptoms of a psychiatric illness on the basis of a single situation.The scenario does not give any information to suggest child abuse.Although the father may have difficulty balancing his work schedule with medical appointments for his child,a more likely explanation for his behavior change is that he is grieving the loss of a normal child.

The Father of a Child Recently Diagnosed with Developmental Delay