distinguish between assimilation and accommodation

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test

1. Distinguish between assimilation and accommodation.

A. Assimilation refers to adjusting our mental frameworks to incorporate new information.
B. Assimilation is when new experiences are interpreted in terms of existing schemas.
C. Assimilation is adapting our behaviors to match societal norms.
D. Assimilation and accommodation are unrelated to cognitive development.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Assimilation is when new experiences are interpreted in terms of existing schemas, meaning individuals try to fit new information into their pre-existing understanding of the world. Accommodation, on the other hand, involves adjusting our schemas to fit new information, which means changing our existing mental frameworks when new information doesn't fit. Choice A is incorrect because it describes accommodation rather than assimilation. Choice C is incorrect as it confuses assimilation with social adaptation. Choice D is incorrect as assimilation and accommodation are fundamental processes in cognitive development, as described by Piaget.

2. Who founded functionalism?

A. John Watson.
B. Sigmund Freud.
C. William James.
D. Wilhelm Wundt.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: William James is credited with founding functionalism, which emphasizes the adaptive purpose of consciousness. John Watson is associated with behaviorism, not functionalism. Sigmund Freud is known for psychoanalysis, and Wilhelm Wundt is considered the founder of modern psychology and structuralism, not functionalism.

3. Elliot became widowed after nearly 40 years of marriage. He has convinced himself that no one will ever love him again. His irrational thinking has caused him to suffer from depression, and he rarely leaves his house. What perspective might best explain his behavior?

A. Psychodynamic
B. Behavioral
C. Biological
D. Cognitive

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The cognitive perspective might best explain Elliot's irrational thinking and resulting depression. In this case, Elliot's belief that he will never be loved again is a cognitive distortion, leading to depressive symptoms and social withdrawal. The psychodynamic perspective primarily focuses on unconscious processes and unresolved conflicts from the past, which do not directly address Elliot's current cognitive distortions. The behavioral perspective would focus on observable behaviors and how they are reinforced, which is not the central issue in this scenario. The biological perspective would examine the role of genetics, brain chemistry, and other physiological factors, which are not the primary cause of Elliot's behavior in this context.

4. How do defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology?

A. They do not contribute to psychopathology as they are healthy coping mechanisms.
B. They contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities.
C. Defense mechanisms have no connection to psychopathology.
D. Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies that can lead to the development of psychopathology.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities. This avoidance can prevent individuals from dealing with underlying issues, leading to the development or exacerbation of psychopathological conditions. Choice A is incorrect because while defense mechanisms may serve as coping mechanisms, they can also contribute to psychopathology when used excessively or inappropriately. Choice C is incorrect as defense mechanisms are indeed connected to psychopathology. Choice D is incorrect because defense mechanisms, when maladaptive, can contribute to psychopathology rather than being considered healthy coping strategies.

5. Which characteristics are associated with adults fixated in the anal stage?

A. Orderliness, obstinacy, or messiness
B. Fixated in the oral stage
C. Dissolves the electra complex
D. Triggers penis envy, which then dissolves the female oedipus complex

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Orderliness, obstinacy, or messiness.' According to Freud's psychosexual theory, fixation in the anal stage can lead to these characteristics in adulthood. Choice B is incorrect as fixation in the oral stage is associated with issues related to dependency and aggression. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the Electra complex, which is not related to the anal stage fixation. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to penis envy and the female Oedipus complex, which are not directly related to characteristics of adults fixated in the anal stage.