the effects of stress on the developing organism can be greatly reduced if the expectant mother

ATI RN

Human Growth and Development Final Exam

1. The effects of stress on the developing organism can be greatly reduced if the expectant mother __________.

A. has access to social support during stressful periods
B. takes a low dose of anti-anxiety medication
C. takes a folic acid supplement early in pregnancy
D. is placed on bed rest during the last trimester

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Having access to social support during stressful periods can greatly reduce the effects of stress on the developing organism. Social support can provide emotional comfort, practical assistance, and a sense of belonging, which can help the expectant mother cope with stress more effectively. This support system can also help mitigate the negative impact of stress on the developing baby during pregnancy. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while folic acid is important for prenatal health, it does not directly address the effects of stress. Taking anti-anxiety medication should be done under medical supervision and as a last resort due to potential risks to the developing baby. Bed rest during the last trimester is not a solution to reduce the effects of stress and may not address the underlying causes of stress.

2. Who is generally regarded as the founder of the child study movement?

A. Arnold Gesell was among the first to write child-rearing books for parents
B. Arnold Gesell is generally regarded as the founder of the child study movement
C. Arnold Gesell foreshadowed lifespan research by writing a book on aging
D. Arnold Gesell constructed the first successful intelligence test

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Arnold Gesell is generally regarded as the founder of the child study movement, emphasizing the importance of observing and documenting children's behaviors to understand their development. While he was a significant figure in child development research, he did not specifically write child-rearing books for parents, foreshadow lifespan research, or construct the first successful intelligence test. Choice A is incorrect as Gesell's focus was more on research rather than writing child-rearing books. Choice C is incorrect as Gesell's main contributions were in child development, not specifically in aging research. Choice D is incorrect as Gesell is not credited with constructing the first successful intelligence test.

3. Maryann is pregnant and works in a smoke-filled environment. What can you tell her about passive smoking?

A. The negative effects of smoking are only evident in children born to heavy smokers.
B. Passive smoking is related to low birth weight, infant death, and childhood respiratory illnesses.
C. Smoke-filled environments are harmful to expectant mothers, but not to their unborn children.
D. The effects of passive smoking are not yet known.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Passive smoking, also known as secondhand smoke, can have harmful effects on pregnancies. Research has shown that exposure to smoke-filled environments during pregnancy is linked to low birth weight, infant death, and childhood respiratory illnesses. Pregnant women should avoid exposure to secondhand smoke to protect the health of their unborn babies. Choice A is incorrect because passive smoking affects both the mother and the unborn child, not just children born to heavy smokers. Choice C is incorrect as it underestimates the risks of smoke-filled environments on unborn children. Choice D is incorrect as research has already established the harmful effects of passive smoking on pregnancies.

4. Mothers who __________ have fewer birth complications and shorter labors.

A. choose cesarean delivery
B. give birth at home
C. are supported by a trained companion during childbirth
D. are administered epidural analgesia during childbirth

Correct answer: C

Rationale: According to research, mothers who are supported by a trained companion during childbirth have fewer birth complications and shorter labors. This support can reduce stress and anxiety levels, provide comfort and encouragement, and help the mother feel more in control during labor and delivery. Overall, having a trained companion present can contribute to a more positive childbirth experience for the mother. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the research findings that specifically highlight the benefits of having a trained companion during childbirth.

5. Which of the following is the best available predictor of infant survival and healthy development?

A. Birth length
B. Combined Apgar score
C. Delivery date
D. Birth weight

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Birth weight.' Birth weight is a crucial indicator of an infant's chances of survival and well-being. Low birth weight is associated with various health risks and developmental challenges. Birth length (choice A) is not as significant in predicting infant outcomes as birth weight. The Combined Apgar score (choice B) is a measure of the newborn's health status at birth, not a predictor of long-term survival and development. Delivery date (choice C) is important for determining gestational age but is not as directly related to infant survival and healthy development as birth weight.