Question

a nurse is caring for a client who has been charged with partner violence against their spouse. the client is angry, pacing, and yells out, \i wouldnt lose my temper if my spouse would just leave me alone. its their fault.\ the nurse should identify the client is displaying which of the following defense mechanisms? projection compartmentalization repression regression

Explanation:

To determine the defense mechanism, we analyze each option:

• Projection: Attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts/feelings to others. The client blames the spouse for their anger, shifting responsibility.
• Compartmentalization: Separating conflicting thoughts/feelings, not seen here.
• Repression: Unconsciously forgetting unacceptable thoughts, not applicable.
• Regression: Reverting to earlier developmental stage, not shown.

The client projects their own anger - related responsibility onto the spouse, matching projection.

Answer:

A. Projection