in field experiments researchers

ATI RN

Human Growth and Development Final Exam

1. In field experiments, researchers __________.

A. selectively assign participants to treatment conditions in natural settings
B. cannot use random assignment or manipulate treatment conditions
C. randomly assign participants to treatment conditions in natural settings
D. have stronger control over the treatment than in the laboratory

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In field experiments, researchers randomly assign participants to treatment conditions in natural settings. This method allows for a higher level of control over potential confounding variables compared to non-random assignment. Random assignment helps ensure that the groups being compared are comparable at the beginning of the study, which strengthens the internal validity of the research findings. Choice A is incorrect because selective assignment may introduce bias. Choice B is incorrect as researchers can use random assignment in field experiments. Choice D is incorrect because field experiments typically have less control over the treatment compared to laboratory experiments.

2. Most cognitive aging research has focused on intellectual ________.

A. stability
B. gains
C. competence
D. deficits

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: deficits.' Most cognitive aging research has indeed focused on deficits rather than stability, gains, or competence. Studies have consistently shown that deficits in processing speed and memory are common in aging individuals, making it a primary area of interest in research. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because cognitive aging research primarily aims to understand and address deficits associated with aging rather than focusing on stability, gains, or overall competence.

3. The term teratogen refers to __________.

A. any environmental agent that causes damage during the prenatal period
B. a limited time span during which a part of the body is biologically prepared to develop rapidly
C. a rapid period of prenatal neurological development
D. a synthetic hormone used to prevent miscarriage

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'any environmental agent that causes damage during the prenatal period.' A teratogen is any substance or factor that can cause harm to the developing fetus during pregnancy. Choice B is incorrect because it describes a critical period, not a teratogen. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to a specific period of development, not a teratogen. Choice D is incorrect because it describes a synthetic hormone, not a teratogen.

4. Lanugo ________.

A. permits food and oxygen to reach the organism
B. provides the fetus a cushion against jolts caused by the mother's movements
C. helps regulate the fetus's body temperature
D. helps the vernix stick to the skin

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Lanugo helps the vernix stick to the skin. Vernix is a waxy substance that covers the fetus's skin during pregnancy. Lanugo is a fine, downy hair that helps to anchor the vernix to the skin, providing protection and nourishment to the developing fetus. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the role of lanugo in prenatal development.

5. In ecological systems theory, how does Toby's move just before entering fourth grade represent a significant change in his life?

A. Microsystem
B. Mesosystem
C. Exosystem
D. Chronosystem

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In ecological systems theory, the chronosystem refers to the dimension of time and how events and transitions over time can influence an individual's development. Toby's move just before entering fourth grade represents a significant change in his life that falls under the chronosystem. The microsystem involves the immediate environments and relationships that directly influence an individual, the mesosystem relates to connections between these environments, and the exosystem includes external settings that indirectly influence the individual, such as parents' workplaces. Therefore, Toby's move best exemplifies a change in the chronosystem due to the temporal influence on his development.