Which statement reflects a therapeutic response related to self-perception for a client experiencing auditory hallucinations?

Which statement reflects a therapeutic response related to self-perception for a client experiencing auditory hallucinations?

• A. "What are the voices telling you?"
• B. "Tell me what you're thinking about yourself."
• C. "You need to ignore the voices."
• D. "It's just your imagination."

Answer: (B)

The statement "Tell me what you're thinking about yourself" is a therapeutic response that encourages the client to reflect on their self-perception and internal thoughts. This approach fosters an open dialogue about the client's feelings and experiences, which can be particularly beneficial for someone experiencing auditory hallucinations. It shows empathy and willingness to understand how the client perceives themselves, especially in the context of their hallucinations. Engaging a client in this manner allows for deeper exploration of their self-concept and how it may be influenced by their experiences. It provides an opportunity for the nurse to support the client in processing these feelings and thoughts, ultimately aiding in their mental health recovery. In contrast, other responses may not support the therapeutic relationship as effectively. Asking "What are the voices telling you?" focuses more on the hallucinations rather than the client’s perception of self. Responses such as "You need to ignore the voices" and "It's just your imagination" can dismiss the client's experience, potentially making them feel invalidated and misunderstood. Through a more supportive and insight-oriented question about their self-thinking, the nurse can build a trusting relationship, which is essential in therapeutic environments.

The statement "Tell me what you're thinking about yourself" is a therapeutic response that encourages the client to reflect on their self-perception and internal thoughts. This approach fosters an open dialogue about the client's feelings and experiences, which can be particularly beneficial for someone experiencing auditory hallucinations. It shows empathy and willingness to understand how the client perceives themselves, especially in the context of their hallucinations.

Engaging a client in this manner allows for deeper exploration of their self-concept and how it may be influenced by their experiences. It provides an opportunity for the nurse to support the client in processing these feelings and thoughts, ultimately aiding in their mental health recovery.

In contrast, other responses may not support the therapeutic relationship as effectively. Asking "What are the voices telling you?" focuses more on the hallucinations rather than the client’s perception of self. Responses such as "You need to ignore the voices" and "It's just your imagination" can dismiss the client's experience, potentially making them feel invalidated and misunderstood. Through a more supportive and insight-oriented question about their self-thinking, the nurse can build a trusting relationship, which is essential in therapeutic environments.