Age Specific Care Competency Related

Review Age Specific Care Competency related questions and content

The mother of a 2-year-old tells the nurse at the well-child clinic that her child likes to take a blanket wherever he goes. The mother asks if she should take the blanket away from the child. The nurse counsels the mother to allow the child to have the blanket because it reminds him of his mother and comforts him. The basis for this counseling is:

  • A. Mahler's theory of object relations
  • B. Freud's developmental theory
  • C. Kernberg's conceptualization object constancy
  • D. Sullivan's theory of 'good me'
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mahler's theory of object relations. Mahler's theory focuses on the development of a child's sense of self and relationships. In the scenario provided, the child's attachment to the blanket can be seen as a transitional object, which is a source of comfort and security, similar to the mother. This concept aligns with Mahler's theory that objects like blankets can serve as symbols of the mother and aid in the child's emotional development.

Incorrect choices:
B: Freud's developmental theory primarily focuses on psychosexual stages of development, which do not directly address the use of transitional objects.
C: Kernberg's conceptualization of object constancy pertains to personality disorders and the ability to maintain stable relationships, not the use of transitional objects.
D: Sullivan's theory of 'good me' is centered around interpersonal relationships and self-esteem, which are not directly related to the use of transitional objects in early childhood development.