A nurse is caring for an adolescent who was recently sexually assaulted.Which of the following statements by the adolescent's guardian represents the presence of a positive support system?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleEncouraging a child to focus solely on the future after a sexual assault can minimize the impact of the trauma and discourage processing the difficult emotions associated with the event. A positive support system allows the child to acknowledge and work through their feelings, not avoid them.Choice B rationaleSuggesting that the child think about what they did to allow the assault to happen places blame on the victim. A positive support system emphasizes that the assault was not the child's fault and focuses on support and healing, not assigning blame.Choice C rationaleWhile concern for the child's well-being is understandable, attempting to monitor all of their relationships can be overly controlling and undermine the child's autonomy and trust. A positive support system balances safety with respect for the child's personal boundaries and development.Choice D rationaleAnticipating that the child will feel some self-blame is a realistic and empathetic understanding of the potential psychological impact of sexual assault. Survivors often internalize blame, even though they are not at fault. Acknowledging this possibility allows the guardian to provide appropriate support and reassurance.