What action should the nurse take for an adolescent with a long history of drug abuse, stealing, and refusal to comply with rules?

Serving as a role model for mature behavior while providing a structured setting is particularly important in the context of adolescents with a history of drug abuse, stealing, and non-compliance with rules. This approach addresses multiple aspects of adolescent development and rehabilitation.

Adolescents often benefit from structured environments where they can learn through observation and experience. By modeling appropriate behavior, the nurse can influence the adolescent's decision-making and coping strategies. This role-modeling can help the adolescent understand the expectations of mature behavior and provide a template for what positive interactions and choices look like.

Additionally, providing a structured setting creates boundaries and reinforces the idea that certain behaviors are unacceptable, while also offering the support needed for change. Such an environment can promote safety and security, allowing the adolescent to feel more comfortable and willing to engage. This is crucial for building trust, which can ultimately facilitate better communication and a willingness to comply with rules.

In contrast, strictly enforcing restrictions without a supportive relationship may lead to further rebellion and disengagement from positive behaviors. Ignoring the behaviors overlooks the need for intervention and could allow them to escalate without correction. Reporting to authorities without discussion may create a barrier to communication, potentially damaging the therapeutic relationship and further alienating the adolescent. Thus, fostering a supportive and structured