Approach behaviors are those coping mechanisms that result in a family's movement toward adjustment and resolution of the crisis of having a child with a chronic illness or disability. Which is considered an approach behavior?

A) Is unable to adjust to a progression of the disease or condition
B) Anticipates future problems and seeks guidance and answers
C) Looks for new cures without a perspective toward possible benefit
D) Fails to recognize the seriousness of the child's condition despite physical evidence

The parents who anticipate future problems and seek guidance and answers are demonstrating approach behaviors. They are demonstrating positive actions in caring for their child. Being unable to adjust to a progression of the disease or condition, looking for new cures without a perspective toward possible benefit, and failing to recognize the seriousness of a child's condition despite physical evidence are avoidance behaviors. The parents are moving away from adjustment (and toward maladaptation) in the crisis of a child with chronic illness or disability.