Psych Final Jeopardy

Final Jeopardy

10000

A 17-year-old client, assigned female at birth, presents to the outpatient psychiatric clinic with severe depression, social withdrawal, and self-harm behaviors. The client states, "I feel trapped in the wrong body. No one understands me. I don't want to keep living like this." The client’s parents refuse to use the client’s chosen name and pronouns, stating, "This is just a phase, and we won’t encourage it."

The client reports experiencing gender dysphoria for several years, worsening in the past year due to bullying at school and rejection at home. The client has had suicidal thoughts but denies having a current plan.

Assessment Findings:

• Affect: Flat, withdrawn
• Mood: Depressed, hopeless
• Reports chronic feelings of distress regarding gender identity
• Self-injurious behavior noted on forearms
• Parents are dismissive, stating, "They’ll grow out of it."

The nurse is developing a care plan for the client. Which of the following interventions are appropriate? (Select all that apply.)

A) Validate the client’s feelings and acknowledge their distress regarding gender identity.
B) Encourage the client to "wait until adulthood" before making any gender-related decisions.
C) Assess the client’s suicide risk and implement safety precautions as needed.
D) Provide psychoeducation about gender dysphoria and support options, including LGBTQ+ resources.
E) Encourage the client to suppress gender dysphoria feelings to improve family acceptance.
F) Facilitate family therapy to promote understanding and improve parental support.

Correct Answers: A, C, D, F

Rationale:

• A is correct – Validation is critical in therapeutic communication. Clients with gender dysphoria often experience rejection, so acknowledging their emotions fosters trust.
• B is incorrect – Encouraging the client to wait can invalidate their distress and increase feelings of hopelessness. Early support leads to better mental health outcomes.
• C is correct – Suicide risk is high in transgender youth, especially with family rejection and bullying. A suicide risk assessment is a priority.
• D is correct – Psychoeducation helps empower the client by providing access to gender-affirming care and community support, which are protective factors against mental health deterioration.
• E is incorrect – Suppressing gender identity worsens dysphoria, increases mental health risks, and does not promote well-being.
• F is correct – Family therapy can improve understanding and reduce rejection, leading to better psychological outcomes for the client.