physical activity

ATI RN

Human Growth and Development Clep Practice Exam

1. How does physical activity impact mental health?

A. Reduces anxiety and depression
B. Improves mood, but decreases alertness
C. Decreases mood, alertness, and energy
D. Decreases neural activity in the cerebral cortex

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Physical activity is known to have a positive impact on mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Choice B is incorrect because physical activity generally improves both mood and alertness. Choice C is incorrect as physical activity tends to increase mood, alertness, and energy levels. Choice D is incorrect as physical activity actually increases neural activity in the cerebral cortex, which is associated with improved cognitive function and mental well-being.

2. 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.

3. Despite growing up in a rundown neighborhood, having divorced parents, and rarely seeing her father, Betty is a successful, happy, and healthy adult. Betty's ability to adapt effectively in the face of threats to development is known as __________.

A. assimilation
B. resilience
C. age-graded development
D. multidimensional development

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Betty's ability to adapt effectively despite facing challenges during her childhood such as growing up in a rundown neighborhood, having divorced parents, and rarely seeing her father demonstrates resilience. Resilience refers to the capacity to achieve positive outcomes despite adverse circumstances. Betty's successful, happy, and healthy adulthood showcases her resilience in navigating and overcoming the threats to her development. Choice A, assimilation, does not fit the context of adapting effectively to adverse circumstances. Assimilation is a cognitive process related to incorporating new information into existing schemas. Choice C, age-graded development, refers to typical developmental changes that occur in a culture at a particular age. Choice D, multidimensional development, encompasses the idea that development is influenced by multiple factors across various dimensions, which is not directly related to Betty's ability to adapt effectively despite facing challenges.

4. In an experiment, the independent variable __________.

A. is the one the investigator expects to be influenced by another variable
B. is the one the investigator expects to cause changes in another variable
C. cannot be manipulated or controlled by the researcher
D. is the number that describes how two measures are associated with each other

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In an experiment, the independent variable is the one that the investigator expects to cause changes in another variable. It is the factor that is deliberately manipulated or changed by the researcher to observe its effects on the dependent variable. The purpose of manipulating the independent variable is to study its impact on the outcome, allowing researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships in their investigations. Choice A is incorrect because the independent variable is not influenced but rather influences another variable. Choice C is incorrect as the independent variable is intentionally manipulated by the researcher. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a different concept unrelated to the independent variable in an experiment.

5. Development is best understood as __________.

A. genetically determined
B. environmentally influenced
C. an unsolvable puzzle
D. a series of complex exchanges between nature and nurture

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Development is best understood as a series of complex exchanges between nature (genetic factors) and nurture (environmental influences). This perspective emphasizes the interaction and interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental experiences in shaping an individual's development. Choices A and B are too extreme as they suggest that development is solely determined by genetics or solely influenced by the environment, which is not the case. Choice C is incorrect as development is not viewed as an unsolvable puzzle but rather as a dynamic process influenced by multiple factors.