What therapeutic advice should a nurse provide to parents of an adolescent with antisocial personality disorder?

The recommendation to set clear limits, explain the consequences if the child disregards them, and apply these consistently is crucial for parents of an adolescent with antisocial personality disorder. This approach provides a structured environment where the adolescent can better understand the relationship between their actions and the outcomes that follow. By establishing boundaries, parents foster an atmosphere of accountability and help their child learn that their choices have consequences.

This therapeutic advice aligns with behavioral modification techniques, which are often effective in managing traits associated with antisocial personality disorder. Consistency in enforcement helps the child develop a sense of trust in the caregivers and an understanding of societal norms, which can be challenging for adolescents with this disorder.

In contrast, discussing behavior and encouraging self-control lacks the necessary rigor and structure required for such adolescents. Simply avoiding expectations undermines the opportunity for growth and accountability, as does encouraging personal responsibility without the framework of set limits. Finding new friends may be beneficial, but it does not address the need for consistent boundaries and consequences in behavior management.