ATI RN
Psychology 2301 Exam 1
1. ______________ are conditions that increase the probability of a disorder but are neither necessary nor sufficient to cause it.
- A. Risk factors
- B. Contributory causes
- C. Sufficient causes
- D. Protective factors
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct term for conditions that increase the probability of a disorder but are neither necessary nor sufficient to cause it is 'Contributory causes.' Risk factors (Choice A) are conditions that increase the likelihood of a negative outcome but do not imply causation. Sufficient causes (Choice C) are conditions that guarantee the occurrence of a disorder by themselves. Protective factors (Choice D) decrease the likelihood of a disorder rather than increasing it.
2. The understanding of genetic influences on behavior may never be fully achieved due to ________.
- A. the ease of researching to differentiate between the effects of the environment and genes.
- B. the likelihood that most behaviors are determined by the interaction of many genes and the environment.
- C. the reliance on twin studies in genetic research.
- D. our significant understanding of how genes impact brain chemistry.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because most behaviors are influenced by the interaction of multiple genes and the environment. Choice A is incorrect because it suggests that researching the effects of the environment and genes is easy, which is not the case. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on a specific method (twin studies) rather than the broader concept of gene-environment interaction. Choice D is incorrect as the statement implies a high level of understanding that contradicts the idea that genetic influences on behavior may never be fully understood.
3. Neural plasticity is ________.
- A. the process by which neurotransmitters are broken down in the brain.
- B. the flexibility of the brain—existing neural circuits can change or new ones can be made.
- C. strong evidence of brain damage, leading to the development of a mental disorder.
- D. the best indicator of temperament and its effect on the personality development of a child.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Neural plasticity refers to the brain's flexibility to change existing neural circuits or create new ones. Choice A is incorrect as it describes neurotransmitter breakdown, not neural plasticity. Choice C is incorrect because neural plasticity does not necessarily indicate brain damage leading to mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect because neural plasticity is not specifically related to temperament or personality development in children.
4. There is experimental evidence showing that consistently being discriminated against may cause a person to ________.
- A. be happy.
- B. be more conscious.
- C. have cardiovascular reactivity.
- D. have greater intelligence and wisdom.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'have cardiovascular reactivity.' Consistent discrimination can lead to increased cardiovascular reactivity, impacting heart health. Choice A ('be happy') is incorrect because discrimination typically causes distress and negative emotions. Choice B ('be more conscious') is not directly related to the impact of discrimination. Choice D ('have greater intelligence and wisdom') is also unrelated to the physiological response of cardiovascular reactivity caused by discrimination.
5. What role do genetic predispositions play in the development of mental disorders?
- A. Genetic predispositions solely determine the development of mental disorders.
- B. Genetic predispositions play a role but are not solely responsible for the development of mental disorders.
- C. Genetic predispositions have no influence on mental disorders.
- D. Genetic predispositions guarantee the development of mental disorders.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Genetic predispositions are indeed a factor in the development of mental disorders, but they are not the sole determining factor. While genetics can predispose individuals to certain conditions, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and life experiences also play a significant role. Choice A is incorrect because mental disorders are influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Choice C is incorrect as genetic predispositions do have an impact on mental health. Choice D is incorrect as genetic predispositions do not guarantee the development of mental disorders, as other factors also contribute to their onset.
Similar Questions

Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $69.99
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $149.99