A nurse is caring for a client who has avoidant personality disorder. Which of the following types of therapy should the nurse anticipate for the client?

Choice A rationale Antipsychotic medications primarily target neurotransmitter systems like dopamine, commonly used for psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia or severe mood disorders with psychotic features. Avoidant personality disorder, characterized by social inhibition and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation, does not typically involve psychosis, thus antipsychotics are not a first-line treatment. Choice B rationale Interpersonal therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and social functioning. For avoidant personality disorder, which involves significant social anxiety and avoidance due to fear of criticism, this therapy helps clients develop healthier communication patterns and navigate social interactions, directly addressing their core symptoms and improving their quality of life. Choice C rationale Dialectical behavior therapy is a specialized cognitive-behavioral therapy often used for borderline personality disorder, focusing on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. While some overlap in symptoms may exist, avoidant personality disorder's primary struggles are not typically the severe emotional dysregulation and impulsivity addressed by DBT. Choice D rationale Antidepressant medications, particularly SSRIs, are used to manage comorbid symptoms like anxiety or depression often seen in avoidant personality disorder. However, they do not directly address the underlying personality traits, maladaptive coping mechanisms, or interpersonal difficulties that define the disorder itself. Therapy is crucial for foundational change.