ATI RN
Psychological Exam
1. Which theoretical orientation insisted on the verifiability of observation?
- A. Structuralism.
- B. Functionalism.
- C. Behaviorism.
- D. Psychoanalysis.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, Behaviorism. Behaviorism emphasizes observable and measurable behaviors, making it essential for observations to be verifiable. Structuralism (A) focuses on the structure of the mind, not verifiability of observations. Functionalism (B) emphasizes the functions of the mind rather than verification of observations. Psychoanalysis (D) delves into the unconscious mind and conflicts, not specifically on the verifiability of observations.
2. Michael, age 16, has recently gained a considerable amount of weight but has not grown any taller. His father experienced a similar pattern of growth when he was a teenager. Theorists who suggest that Michael’s growth pattern was inherited from his father emphasize the ________ side of the nature-nurture debate?
- A. Nature
- B. Nurture
- C. Environmental
- D. Experiential
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'A: Nature.' In this scenario, the emphasis is on the genetic inheritance of the growth pattern from father to son, highlighting the role of nature in determining physical characteristics. Choice B, 'Nurture,' focuses on environmental influences, which are not the primary factor in this case. Choice C, 'Environmental,' is similar to 'Nurture' and does not address the genetic aspect mentioned. Choice D, 'Experiential,' pertains more to the learning and experiential aspects rather than genetic inheritance, making it an incorrect choice.
3. The child might see an orange and say 'apple' because both objects are round. This is known as ____?
- A. Accommodation
- B. Assimilation
- C. A detailed description of a single culture or context
- D. A study that tests a causal hypothesis
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assimilation. Assimilation occurs when a child applies an existing schema (like 'apple' for round objects) to new objects. In this scenario, the child sees the round orange and calls it an 'apple' because they are both round. Choice A, Accommodation, involves modifying an existing schema to fit a new object or situation, which is not the case in the given scenario. Choices C and D are unrelated to the concept being tested in this question.
4. When interviewing a new member of the psychology department for the university newspaper, the faculty member states, 'Internal states undoubtedly exist, but it is not necessary to draw inferences about unobservable states in order to understand behavior.' This faculty member's views are most similar to the views held by?
- A. William James.
- B. F. Skinner.
- C. Sigmund Freud.
- D. Carl Rogers.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: F. Skinner's views emphasized the importance of observable behavior and dismissed the need to infer unobservable mental states. This aligns with the faculty member's statement that internal states exist but are not essential for understanding behavior. William James, known for his work in functionalism, did consider internal mental states important. Sigmund Freud focused on unconscious motives and internal conflicts. Carl Rogers emphasized the importance of subjective experiences and personal growth, which differs from the faculty member's perspective.
5. The early approach in psychology that fostered the development of modern-day applied psychology was?
- A. Structuralism
- B. Behaviorism
- C. Functionalism
- D. Pragmatism
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Functionalism is the correct answer. Functionalism was an early approach in psychology that emphasized the practical applications of psychological research, laying the groundwork for modern-day applied psychology. Structuralism, focusing on the structure of the mind, and Behaviorism, emphasizing observable behaviors, were more theoretical in nature and did not directly lead to applied psychology. Pragmatism is a philosophical approach and not a specific early psychological theory.
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