Impaired Social Interaction | Nursing Care Plan Obesity

Nursing diagnosis: impaired Social Interaction related to Verbalized or observed discomfort in social situations, Self-concept disturbance

Possibly evidenced by
Reluctance to participate in social gatherings
Verbalization of a sense of discomfort with others

Desired Outcomes/Evaluation Criteria—Client Will
Social Involvement
Verbalize awareness of feelings that lead to poor social interactions.
Become involved in achieving positive changes in social behaviors and interpersonal relationships.

Nursing intervention with rationale:
1. Review family patterns of relating and social behaviors.
Rationale: Social interaction is primarily learned within the family of origin. When inadequate patterns are identified, actions for change can be instituted.

2. Encourage client to express feelings and perceptions of problems.
Rationale: Helps identify and clarify reasons for difficulties in interacting with others, such as feeling unloved or unlovable and insecure about sexuality.

3. Assess client’s use of coping skills and defense mechanisms.
Rationale: May have coping skills that will be useful in the process of weight loss. Defense mechanisms used to protect the individual may contribute to feelings of aloneness or isolation.

4. Have client list behaviors that cause discomfort.
Rationale: Identifies specific concerns and suggests actions that can be taken to effect change.

5. Involve in role playing new ways to deal with identified behaviors or situations.
Rationale: Practicing these new behaviors enables the individual to become comfortable with them in a safe situation.

6. Discuss negative self-concepts and self-talk, such as, “No one wants to be with a fat person,” “Who would be interested in talking to me?”
Rationale: May be impeding positive social interactions.

7. Encourage use of positive self-talk such as telling oneself “I am OK,” or “I can enjoy social activities and do not need to be controlled by what others think or say.”
Rationale: Positive strategies enhance feelings of comfort and support efforts for change.

8. Refer for ongoing family or individual therapy, as indicated.
Rationale: Client benefits from involvement of SO to provide support and encouragement.