Nursing Elites

1. Dr. George predicted that positive reinforcement would increase prosocial behavior in preschoolers. Dr. George's prediction is an example of a __________.

• A. theory
• B. research question
• C. hypothesis
• D. research design

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dr. George's prediction that positive reinforcement would increase prosocial behavior in preschoolers is an example of a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction about the relationship between variables based on existing knowledge or theories. In this case, Dr. George is making a prediction about the effect of positive reinforcement on prosocial behavior, which can be tested through research. Choice A, 'theory,' is incorrect because a theory is a broader explanation that integrates a range of findings and observations. Choice B, 'research question,' is incorrect as it refers to an inquiry that asks about the relationship between variables but lacks the specificity and testability of a hypothesis. Choice D, 'research design,' is incorrect as it pertains to the overall strategy or plan for conducting a research study, not the specific prediction Dr. George made.

2. What is a major strength of the longitudinal design?

• A. Examine relationships between early and later behaviors
• B. Collect a large amount of data in a short time span
• C. Explore similarities among children of different cohorts
• D. Study participants differing in age at the same point in time

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A major strength of the longitudinal design is that researchers can examine relationships between early and later behaviors. This design allows researchers to observe and track changes in the same participants over an extended period of time, providing valuable insights into developmental trajectories and how behaviors are connected across different stages of life. Choice B is incorrect because longitudinal studies track changes over time, not necessarily collect a large amount of data in a short time span. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to cross-sectional studies rather than longitudinal studies. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a cross-sectional design where participants of different ages are studied at the same time.

3. What is one strength of the cross-sectional design?

• A. It provides evidence about individual trends.
• B. It cannot be threatened by cohort effects.
• C. It is not plagued with dropout or practice effects.
• D. It permits longitudinal comparisons. Answer: C Page Ref: 34 Skill Level: Understand Topic: Studying Development Difficulty Level: Moderate

Correct answer: C

Rationale: One strength of the cross-sectional design is that it is not plagued with dropout or practice effects. This is because cross-sectional studies assess different individuals at the same point in time, eliminating the risk of participants dropping out or improving due to repeated measures.

4. Spatial skills __________.

• A. increase exponentially in early childhood
• B. support children's improved executive function
• C. develop gradually over childhood and adolescence
• D. are typically housed in the left hemisphere

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Spatial skills develop gradually over childhood and adolescence, reflecting the increasing complexity of these abilities. Choice A is incorrect because spatial skills do not increase exponentially in early childhood but rather develop steadily. Choice B is incorrect as spatial skills are not directly linked to executive function. Choice D is incorrect because spatial skills are not typically housed in a specific hemisphere but involve a network of brain regions.

5. Which statement provides an example of an age-graded influence?

• A. Paul learned to play the violin at a young age.
• B. Jack enjoys hiking in the mountains.
• C. Sarah prefers reading mystery novels.
• D. Alex excels in mathematics.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The corrected statement 'Paul learned to play the violin at a young age' provides an example of an age-graded influence. This is because learning to play the violin is a behavior that is typical or expected at a certain age, reflecting how age influences individuals' experiences and development. In contrast, choices B, C, and D do not directly relate to age-graded influences. Jack's enjoyment of hiking, Sarah's preference for reading mystery novels, and Alex's proficiency in mathematics are not inherently tied to age-related developmental influences.

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