Nokea
Carol, a nurse in a family medicine outpatient clinic, conducts initial interviews when new families are referred. She has just finished interviewing a mother who has come to the clinic with her three children, ages 5, 7, and 11. The mother says to the oldest child, 'You have been such a help to me, playing with your brothers while I talk to the nurse.' In assessing family interaction, the nurse recognizes this statement as a direct indicator of which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Self-concept reinforcement. The mother's statement to the oldest child acknowledges and reinforces the child's positive behavior of helping with siblings, which can contribute to enhancing the child's self-concept. This type of positive reinforcement can boost the child's self-esteem and self-worth. It also indicates that the mother values and appreciates the child's role in the family dynamic, which can have a positive impact on the child's self-perception and confidence.
A: Family climate - While the mother's statement may reflect a positive family climate, the focus is more on individual behavior and self-concept reinforcement.
B: Family members’ expectations - The statement does not directly relate to expectations but rather acknowledges the child's helpful behavior.
C: Handling differences - The statement does not pertain to resolving conflicts or differences within the family but rather highlights positive behavior.