john watson argued that psychologists should

ATI RN

Exam 4 Psychology 101

1. John Watson argued that psychologists should?

A. Use the method of introspection to establish the structural aspects of consciousness.
B. Be concerned with the purposiveness (function) of behavior.
C. Confine their work to people who are diagnosed as mentally ill.
D. Abandon the study of consciousness.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: John Watson was a key figure in the development of behaviorism, which advocated for focusing on observable behavior rather than the study of consciousness. Choice D is the correct answer because Watson believed that psychology should abandon the study of consciousness. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because Watson's approach emphasized behavior and rejected the importance of consciousness, introspection, or confining psychology to only mentally ill individuals.

2. In a discussion with your professor, she tells you that she believes that the focus of psychological study should be to break the conscious experience into its basic elements. Which of the following historical schools of thought is your professor's idea most consistent with?

A. Behaviorism
B. Functionalism
C. Structuralism
D. Psychoanalysis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Structuralism. Structuralism, as introduced by Wundt, aimed to break down mental processes into their most basic elements. This aligns with the idea of breaking the conscious experience into its fundamental components. Choice A, Behaviorism, focuses on observable behavior and not on breaking down conscious experience. Choice B, Functionalism, emphasizes the purpose of behavior rather than breaking it down into basic elements. Choice D, Psychoanalysis, delves into unconscious processes and conflicts, which is different from breaking down conscious experiences into basic elements.

3. Most behavioral disorders are determined primarily by ________.

A. genetics
B. upbringing
C. diet
D. environment

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Genetics play a significant role in the development of behavioral disorders. While upbringing, diet, and environment can also influence behavior, genetics are often the primary factor in determining behavioral disorders. Choice B (upbringing) can contribute to behavior but is not the sole determinant of behavioral disorders. Choice C (diet) can impact behavior but is not the primary factor in behavioral disorders. Choice D (environment) can also influence behavior, but genetics typically play a more significant role in determining behavioral disorders.

4. Which of the following is a common criticism against Piaget's theory of cognitive development?

A. The sequence of stages is not fixed.
B. Research has not supported the existence of the preoperational stage.
C. Piaget put a heavy emphasis on the environment, ignoring the importance of mental processes.
D. Children develop abilities earlier than Piaget theorized.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because one common criticism of Piaget's theory is that children often acquire cognitive abilities earlier than Piaget proposed. This criticism suggests that Piaget's stages might not be as fixed or rigid as he believed. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect: A is a characteristic of Piaget's theory; B is not a common criticism, as research generally supports the existence of Piaget's stages; and C is inaccurate, as Piaget actually emphasized the importance of mental processes in cognitive development.

5. How does the environment interact with genetic predispositions to influence mental health?

A. The environment has no influence on mental health.
B. The environment interacts with genetic predispositions to either enhance or mitigate mental health risks.
C. The environment can only influence physical health, not mental health.
D. The environment has a minimal effect on mental health outcomes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The environment interacts with genetic predispositions to either enhance or mitigate mental health risks. This highlights the intricate relationship between one's genetic makeup and the environmental factors they are exposed to, both contributing significantly to mental health outcomes. Choice A is incorrect as numerous studies show that the environment plays a crucial role in mental health. Choice C is incorrect as the environment can influence both physical and mental health. Choice D is incorrect as research indicates that the environment can have a substantial impact on mental health outcomes.