A nurse is caring for a client who has antisocial personality disorder and is exhibiting manipulative behaviors during group therapy. Which action should the nurse take to intervene?

• A. Ignore manipulative behaviors during the session.
• B. Discuss consequences of inappropriate behaviors.
• C. Bargain with the client regarding established behavioral expectations.
• D. Place the client in seclusion immediately after inappropriate behavior occurs.

Answer: (D)

Managing safety and group dynamics when manipulation arises requires firm, consistent boundaries. Placing the client in seclusion immediately after the inappropriate behavior ends the disruption, prevents escalation, and gives staff time to de-escalate and refocus the group. This approach emphasizes safety and clear consequences rather than punishment, showing that manipulative tactics have real, immediate repercussions. Ignoring the behavior would leave others at risk and allow disruption to continue, discussing consequences without timely enforcement may not stop the behavior, and bargaining can reinforce manipulation by rewarding the tactic.