The nurse plans to use role playing as a therapeutic measure. Which individual is most likely to benefit from this type of therapeutic intervention?

A. An adolescent who is depressed over not being accepted by peers: Role playing allows adolescents to practice social interactions, develop communication skills, and explore coping strategies in a safe environment. It can help the client gain confidence, improve problem-solving abilities, and prepare for real-life peer situations. B. Hyperactive 4-year-old who has recently been tested for autism: While play therapy is useful for young children and those with autism spectrum disorder, structured role playing may be too abstract for a 4-year-old. Developmental level and attention span may limit the effectiveness of role playing in this age group. C. An adult with schizophrenia who often refuses to take prescribed antipsychotic medications: Role playing is generally less effective for clients with active psychotic symptoms such as delusions or hallucinations. Medication adherence issues in schizophrenia are better addressed through psychoeducation, motivational interviewing, and structured support. D. An older adult resident of a long-term care facility who sometimes takes other residents' belongings: While role playing could be used to teach social norms, behavioral interventions such as redirection, supervision, and environmental modifications are more practical and immediately effective for managing problematic behaviors in older adults with cognitive decline.