A nurse is caring for a child who has terminal cancer. Which of the following responses by the child's school-age brother should the nurse expect?

A. Believes that his brother's death will be reversible. This response is more typical of preschool-aged children (ages 3 to 5), who often perceive death as temporary or reversible, similar to sleep or separation. School-age children, however, begin to understand the finality of death, though they may still struggle with its implications. B. Believes his bad behavior is causing his brother's death. School-age children (ages 6 to 12) often engage in magical thinking and may believe that their actions, thoughts, or behaviors are responsible for events, including illness and death. They may feel guilt and self-blame, thinking that past misbehavior contributed to their sibling's condition. Providing reassurance and education about the medical causes of the illness can help alleviate these feelings. C. Alienates himself from his peers. While social withdrawal can occur in grieving children, school-age children typically seek peer support and may use friendships as a coping mechanism. Alienation is more commonly seen in adolescents, who might isolate themselves due to difficulty expressing emotions or fear of burdening others. D. Regresses to an earlier developmental level. Regression, such as bedwetting, clinging behavior, or baby talk, is more commonly seen in younger children, particularly toddlers and preschoolers, when they experience stress or grief. School-age children are more likely to express distress through guilt, sadness, or behavioral changes rather than regression.