A teenager has recently lost a parent. Which grieving behavior would the school nurse expect when assessing this client?

Choice A reason: Preoccupation with the loss is more typical of adults or younger children who ruminate or idealize the deceased. While adolescents may experience this, it is not the most developmentally expected behavior in this age group. Choice B reason: Denial of personal mortality is more characteristic of early childhood or early adulthood. Teenagers, while still developing abstract thinking, are often acutely aware of mortality, especially after a significant loss. Choice C reason: Aggressive and defiant behaviors are common grief responses in adolescents. They may act out due to confusion, anger, or inability to express emotions verbally. These behaviors can be a defense mechanism against vulnerability and emotional pain. Choice D reason: Clinging behaviors and insecurity are more typical of younger children who lack the cognitive and emotional maturity to process loss. Adolescents are more likely to externalize their grief through rebellion or withdrawal.