MCAT Behavioral Sciences Question 255: Answer and Explanation

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Test Information

Question: 255

5. Which of the following scenarios best reflects how a psychoanalytic therapist would treat a patient with AN?

  • A. The therapist would make sure to establish a relationship with the client based on rapport and mutual trust, and would always provide unconditional positive regard to the client.
  • B. The therapist would help the patient gain awareness of his or her unconscious motives for his or her behavior, and help the patient to transition from self-loathing and guilt to reality.
  • C. The therapist would attempt to recondition negative behaviors.
  • D. The therapist would help the patient pinpoint negative thoughts and feelings, and help the patient learn positive self-talk and healthier behaviors.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

Psychoanalytic therapy focuses on helping the patient gain awareness of his or her unconscious motives, and then make choices that are based on reality rather than on instincts (id) or guilt (superego; choice B is correct). Humanistic therapy is more concerned with establishing a relationship between the therapist and the "client" based on mutual trust and unconditional positive regard (choice A is wrong). Behavioral therapy might involve reconditioning of negative behaviors (choice C is wrong) and cognitive behavior therapy best describes targeting negative thoughts/feelings and learning positive self-talk and healthier behaviors (choice D is wrong).

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