American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Practice Test

What is an example of role confusion?

1. A mother juggling work and care for a sick child

2. A nurse unsure how to act when meeting a patient socially

3. Imitating a parent's behavior

4. A legally binding contract between two individuals

The correct answer is: A nurse unsure how to act when meeting a patient socially

Role confusion occurs when an individual is uncertain about their responsibilities or expectations within a particular social role. This can lead to feelings of anxiety or discomfort, particularly in situations where the social norms are ambiguous or conflicting. In the scenario provided, a nurse who is unsure how to conduct herself when meeting a patient in a social setting exemplifies role confusion. The nurse typically operates in a professional capacity within a structured environment, but when that professional boundary is crossed into a more personal setting, the expectations become unclear. This uncertainty can cause confusion regarding how to appropriately balance the dual aspects of their identity—both as a caregiver in a professional context and as an individual in a social context. The other options, while they may involve challenges related to roles, do not illustrate the concept of role confusion in the same way. The mother juggling work and care is managing her roles but is not confused about them; she understands her responsibilities but faces the challenge of multitasking. Imitating a parent's behavior suggests a modeling of behavior rather than confusion about roles, and a legally binding contract represents a clear legal obligation rather than ambiguity in social roles.