NSG 527 Exam 3 V2 | NSG 527
Psychopathology, Theories, & Advanced
Clinical Modalities | Wilkes University |
2026 Q&A with Rationale (Wilkes NSG527
Exam 3 2026)
1. According to Irvin Yalom, which therapeutic factor is defined as the process where group
members provide support, reassurance, and suggestions to each other?
A. Universality
B. Altruism
C. Imitative Behavior
D. Catharsis
Answer: B
Rationale: Altruism allows group members to gain a sense of value by helping others
within the therapeutic setting. This factor fosters a supportive environment where
individuals feel they have something worthwhile to offer their peers. It is particularly
effective in boosting self-esteem and reducing self-absorption during the group process.
2. In Bowenian Family Systems Theory, what term describes the process of a third person
being brought into a two-person relationship to reduce tension?
A. Differentiation
,B. Nuclear Family Emotional Process
C. Emotional Cutoff
D. Triangulation
Answer: D
Rationale: Triangulation occurs when a dyad in conflict recruits a third party to stabilize
their relationship and diffuse anxiety. While it provides temporary relief, it often prevents
the original pair from resolving their underlying issues directly. In clinical practice, the
PMHNP seeks to ‘detriangulate’ the family to promote healthier communication.
3. A PMHNP is utilizing Structural Family Therapy with a family where the parents are overly
involved in their teenager’s daily life, leaving no room for privacy. This is an example of which
type of boundary?
A. Rigid boundaries
B. Clear boundaries
C. Diffuse boundaries
D. Disengaged boundaries
Answer: C
Rationale: Diffuse boundaries are characterized by an over-involvement or enmeshment
between family members, leading to a loss of autonomy. This lack of structure prevents
individuals from developing their own identities and often results in high levels of family
, stress. The therapist aims to establish clearer boundaries to allow for both connection and
independence.
4. During a group session, a member realizes that their problems are not unique and that
others share similar struggles. Which of Yalom’s factors does this represent?
A. Instillation of hope
B. Universality
C. Existential factors
D. Socializing techniques
Answer: B
Rationale: Universality provides members with the relief that they are not alone in their
suffering or experiences. This realization helps to decrease feelings of isolation and shame
that often accompany mental health disorders. It serves as a powerful unifying force that
strengthens the group’s cohesion in early stages.
5. Which therapeutic modality focuses on the ‘here-and-now’ and emphasizes the importance
of the therapeutic relationship as the primary vehicle for change?
A. Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)
B. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
C. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
D. Person-Centered Therapy
Psychopathology, Theories, & Advanced
Clinical Modalities | Wilkes University |
2026 Q&A with Rationale (Wilkes NSG527
Exam 3 2026)
1. According to Irvin Yalom, which therapeutic factor is defined as the process where group
members provide support, reassurance, and suggestions to each other?
A. Universality
B. Altruism
C. Imitative Behavior
D. Catharsis
Answer: B
Rationale: Altruism allows group members to gain a sense of value by helping others
within the therapeutic setting. This factor fosters a supportive environment where
individuals feel they have something worthwhile to offer their peers. It is particularly
effective in boosting self-esteem and reducing self-absorption during the group process.
2. In Bowenian Family Systems Theory, what term describes the process of a third person
being brought into a two-person relationship to reduce tension?
A. Differentiation
,B. Nuclear Family Emotional Process
C. Emotional Cutoff
D. Triangulation
Answer: D
Rationale: Triangulation occurs when a dyad in conflict recruits a third party to stabilize
their relationship and diffuse anxiety. While it provides temporary relief, it often prevents
the original pair from resolving their underlying issues directly. In clinical practice, the
PMHNP seeks to ‘detriangulate’ the family to promote healthier communication.
3. A PMHNP is utilizing Structural Family Therapy with a family where the parents are overly
involved in their teenager’s daily life, leaving no room for privacy. This is an example of which
type of boundary?
A. Rigid boundaries
B. Clear boundaries
C. Diffuse boundaries
D. Disengaged boundaries
Answer: C
Rationale: Diffuse boundaries are characterized by an over-involvement or enmeshment
between family members, leading to a loss of autonomy. This lack of structure prevents
individuals from developing their own identities and often results in high levels of family
, stress. The therapist aims to establish clearer boundaries to allow for both connection and
independence.
4. During a group session, a member realizes that their problems are not unique and that
others share similar struggles. Which of Yalom’s factors does this represent?
A. Instillation of hope
B. Universality
C. Existential factors
D. Socializing techniques
Answer: B
Rationale: Universality provides members with the relief that they are not alone in their
suffering or experiences. This realization helps to decrease feelings of isolation and shame
that often accompany mental health disorders. It serves as a powerful unifying force that
strengthens the group’s cohesion in early stages.
5. Which therapeutic modality focuses on the ‘here-and-now’ and emphasizes the importance
of the therapeutic relationship as the primary vehicle for change?
A. Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)
B. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
C. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
D. Person-Centered Therapy
