Which is the most significant consequence of the excessive use of defense mechanisms?
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A
The superego will be suppressed.
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B
Emotions will be experienced intensely
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C
Learning and the ability to grow will be enhanced.
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D
Problem-solving will be limited.
The choice that aligns with the client data is Problem-solving will be limited..
B. Emotions will be experienced intensely.
This would apply in a different scenario where the idea in “Emotions will be experienced intensely.” addresses a different mechanism or priority than the one emphasized by the stem The wording does not track the stem’s main cue, so selecting it would shift the nurse away from the most precise interpretation or priority.
C. Learning and the ability to grow will be enhanced.
This would apply in a different scenario where the idea in “Learning and the ability to grow will be enhanced.” addresses a different mechanism or priority than the one emphasized by the stem The wording does not track the stem’s main cue, so selecting it would shift the nurse away from the most precise interpretation or priority.
D. Problem-solving will be limited.
This aligns with the concept that Defense mechanisms become maladaptive when they are used by an individual to such a degree that there is interference with the ability to deal with reality, effective interpersonal relations, or occupational performance. Need: Psychosocial Integrity Ego defenses can reduce anxiety in the short term, but they become clinically relevant when they distort reality enough to interfere with insight, relationships, or treatment adherence. From a nursing standpoint, this selection guides assessment and interventions toward what is most clinically meaningful in the moment—risk reduction, safety, accurate appraisal, and support for adaptive coping.
Conclusion
The scenario is best handled by identifying what the nurse must interpret or prioritize first and then choosing the statement that fits that requirement with the least distortion. The distractors have surface appeal, but they do not align as tightly with the clinical cue embedded in the stem.