A client with a mental health disorder arrives at the emergency department disheveled, arguing with family members. The nurse recognizes that the family is suffering from an objective family burden, which is related to which of the following?

Question

1. The client's symptomatic behaviors
2. Caregiving problems
3. Fear
4. Family conflict

Answer 1

1. The client's symptomatic behaviors

Rationale:
The objective family burden is related to the actual, identifiable family problems associated with a person's mental illness. One burden the family must manage relates to symptomatic behaviors. Deficit behaviors of their loved ones—such as lack of motivation, difficulty in completing tasks, isolation from others, inability to manage money, poor grooming and personal care, and poor eating and sleeping behavior—can be of great concern to families. Intrusive or acting-out behaviors—such as lack of consideration for others, excessive arguing, conflicts with neighbors and friends, damaging material possessions, inappropriate sexual behavior, suicide attempts, substance abuse, and violent outbursts—are very disturbing to family members. The family may be experiencing caregiving problems, fear, or family conflict, but these arise from the client's symptomatic behaviors.