Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

When a nurse employs behavior therapy for psychiatric clients, this reflects an intervention based in which domain?

1. Social

2. Physical

3. Psychologic

4. Legal

The correct answer is: Psychologic

Behavior therapy is primarily focused on addressing and modifying specific behaviors to improve mental health outcomes in psychiatric clients. This approach is grounded in the psychological domain, as it is concerned with understanding emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and how they interact to influence a person's mental state. In behavior therapy, techniques such as reinforcement, prompting, and modeling are used to encourage desirable behaviors and diminish maladaptive ones. The aim is to change patterns of thinking or behavior that contribute to psychological distress. By reinforcing positive behaviors or providing strategies to cope with challenges, nurses help clients develop healthier psychological responses. The other domains mentioned do not align with the specific nature of behavior therapy. The social domain focuses on interpersonal relationships and social skills, while the physical domain pertains to bodily health and functions. The legal domain involves the laws and ethical standards governing healthcare, which are not directly related to the psychological techniques used in behavior therapy. Therefore, the most fitting classification for the use of behavior therapy in this context is the psychologic domain.