What instruction should a nurse include in discharge teaching for a client with dependent personality disorder?

In discharge teaching for a client with dependent personality disorder, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating assertiveness is critical. Individuals with this disorder often struggle with low self-esteem and a strong desire for approval from others, which can lead to difficulties in expressing their own needs and desires. By teaching the client to be assertive, the nurse is helping them develop a crucial skill that promotes independence and healthier interpersonal relationships. Assertiveness training can empower the client to communicate their needs without fear of disapproval, ultimately fostering self-confidence and greater autonomy in decision-making.

Encouraging reliance on family for support, avoiding independent decision-making, or scheduling frequent follow-up appointments may inadvertently reinforce the client's dependency rather than promote autonomy and self-sufficiency. It is essential for individuals with this disorder to learn techniques and skills that will help them function more independently in their daily lives, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and reducing dependency on others.