A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia who consistently does the opposite of what the nurse asks of him. The nurse recognizes this as which of the following alterations in behavior?

Choice A reason: Automatic obedience involves unthinkingly following instructions, often seen in catatonia. The client’s oppositional behavior is the opposite, making this an incorrect choice. Choice B reason: Active negativism, common in schizophrenia, involves deliberately doing the opposite of what is requested, reflecting resistance or opposition. The client’s behavior matches this description. Choice C reason: Impaired impulse control involves acting on urges without restraint, such as aggression or impulsivity. The client’s deliberate opposition is not impulsive but purposeful, so this is incorrect. Choice D reason: Waxy flexibility involves maintaining imposed postures, typically in catatonia. The client’s oppositional behavior does not involve physical posturing, making this incorrect.