Which of the following is NOT an external cause of frustration?

Appeared in: HP CHO -9 October 2022

Explanation

Frustration can stem from either internal (personal) or external (environmental) sources.
Low IQ is considered an internal or personal cause of frustration because it relates to an individual's own cognitive abilities and characteristics that may prevent them from reaching a goal.
This factor originates from within the person, unlike obstacles imposed by the outside world.

Option A: Standing in line is a classic example of an external, environmental obstacle that physically delays a person from reaching their goal.
Option C: Standing in traffic is another clear example of an external, environmental factor (a physical blockage) that is outside of the individual's control and blocks goal achievement.
Option D: Roadblocks are physical barriers placed in the environment to obstruct a path, making them a direct and unambiguous external cause of frustration.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Internal vs. External Causes of Frustration as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must identify the source of a patient's frustration to provide appropriate support and interventions.
If a patient's frustration is external (e.g., long wait times for a procedure), the nurse can manage the environment by providing updates, offering distractions, or advocating for system improvements.
If frustration is internal (e.g., difficulty understanding complex discharge instructions), the nurse should adapt their communication, use simpler language, provide written materials, or involve family members.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the question and identify the negative keyword 'NOT'. This tells you to look for the option that is the exception.
The question asks for the option that is NOT an external cause. This means you are searching for an internal cause of frustration.
Define the two categories: 'External causes' are environmental barriers (e.g., traffic, rules), while 'internal causes' are personal limitations (e.g., lack of skill, physical disability).
Evaluate each option against these definitions.
Recognize that 'Standing in line', 'Standing in traffic', and 'Roadblocks' are all obstacles in the environment.
Identify 'Low IQ' as a personal characteristic, which fits the definition of an internal cause. This makes it the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Internal vs. External Causes of Frustration
Stem keywords: frustration, external cause
Lead-in keywords: NOT
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks to identify the option that is NOT an external cause of frustration, meaning the correct answer must be an internal cause.

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E6 Psychology Applied Sreevani 5e p. 70-72

E6 Psychology Morgan King 9e Part 1 p. 315-317

Practise the full HP CHO -9 October 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.