Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What best describes a full range of affect in an individual?

1. An individual expressing several emotions that are consistent with their stated feelings

2. An individual expressing only positive emotions

3. An individual suppressing all emotions

4. An individual showing no emotions at all

The correct answer is: An individual expressing several emotions that are consistent with their stated feelings

A full range of affect in an individual refers to the ability to express and experience a variety of emotions that align with their thoughts and feelings. This means that a person demonstrates emotional variability that is appropriate to their context, including joy, sadness, anger, fear, and surprise, among others. It reflects emotional responsiveness and the capacity to engage authentically with both positive and negative emotions. When an individual expresses emotions that are consistent with their stated feelings, it indicates an awareness of their emotional state and the ability to communicate that state effectively. This kind of emotional expression is vital for healthy interpersonal interactions and psychological well-being, as it allows for genuine connections and discussions about feelings. The other options describe situations where emotional expression is limited or absent. Only expressing positive emotions does not represent the full spectrum of human experience. Suppressing all emotions and showing no emotions at all indicate a significant emotional restriction or dysfunction, which is contrary to the idea of having a full range of affect. Therefore, expressing various emotions that correspond with one's feelings is the hallmark of a full range of affect.