A nurse is responding to a parent of an adolescent who was recently diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder following a sexual assault. The parent states, "My child ignores curfew, is hanging out with a rough crowd, and has been experimenting with drugs. Why would they be doing this?" Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A reason: This option is incorrect because it dismisses the parent’s concerns and minimizes the adolescent’s behavior. While some risk-taking can be normal in adolescence, the behaviors described—drug use, ignoring curfew, and associating with a rough crowd—are not typical responses and are concerning, especially in the context of posttraumatic stress disorder. Minimizing these behaviors could prevent the parent from receiving appropriate guidance and support, and it fails to acknowledge the impact of trauma on the adolescent’s coping mechanisms. Choice B reason: This option is also incorrect because it shifts the focus away from the adolescent’s trauma and instead places emphasis on family rules and comparisons with siblings. While family dynamics and rules are important, this response does not validate the parent’s concern or provide insight into why the adolescent is engaging in reckless behaviors. It risks making the parent feel blamed or judged rather than supported, and it does not address the underlying issue of trauma-related behavioral changes. Choice C reason: This is the correct option because it acknowledges the parent’s distress and provides a therapeutic explanation for the adolescent’s behavior. Adolescents who experience trauma, such as sexual assault, may engage in reckless or risk-taking behaviors as a maladaptive coping mechanism. These behaviors can be attempts to regain control, numb emotional pain, or distract from intrusive memories. By explaining this connection, the nurse validates the parent’s concerns, provides education about trauma responses, and opens the door for further discussion about appropriate interventions and support strategies. Choice D reason: This option is incorrect because, although it shows empathy and attempts to involve the parent in problem-solving, it does not provide an explanation for the adolescent’s behavior. The parent specifically asked “Why would they be doing this?” and this response does not answer that question. While prioritizing behaviors for intervention is useful, the immediate need is to help the parent understand the link between trauma and reckless actions. Without that explanation, the parent may continue to feel confused and unsupported.