Nursing Elites

1. The process of ________ is used to increase the probability that a behavior will occur.

• A. operant conditioning
• B. reinforcement
• C. classical conditioning
• D. punishment

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is reinforcement. Reinforcement involves providing a consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Operant conditioning (Choice A) refers to learning through consequences for behavior, which includes reinforcement and punishment. Classical conditioning (Choice C) involves forming associations between stimuli and involuntary responses. Punishment (Choice D) involves providing a consequence that decreases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. In this context, the question specifically asks about a process that increases the probability of a behavior occurring, aligning with the concept of reinforcement.

2. 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.

3. Why is it difficult to determine the nature of the relationship between divorce and the psychological functioning of family members?

• A. Cause and effect cannot be determined as preexisting behavioral abnormalities in either the parents or the children may make divorce more likely.
• B. The findings have been too inconsistent to draw any conclusions.
• C. While the effects of divorce are negative on children, the effects on the spouses are generally positive.
• D. Due to modern acceptance of divorce, there has been an ongoing decrease in the negative effects of divorce.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it highlights a crucial factor that makes it challenging to establish a clear cause and effect relationship between divorce and the psychological functioning of family members. Preexisting behavioral abnormalities in either the parents or the children may influence both the likelihood of divorce and the psychological functioning of family members. Choice B is incorrect as it generalizes the findings without specifying the key issue of preexisting conditions. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the effects of divorce on family members. Choice D is incorrect as it presents a broad statement without addressing the complexities involved in determining the effects of divorce.

4. Which of the following psychologists would be most likely to stress that each person has a drive to grow and fulfill his or her potential?

• A. Sigmund Freud
• B. F. Skinner
• C. G. Stanley Hall
• D. Abraham Maslow

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Abraham Maslow. He was a leading humanist psychologist who introduced the concept of the hierarchy of needs. Maslow emphasized the human drive for self-actualization, which involves fulfilling one's potential and striving for personal growth. Sigmund Freud (choice A) focused on psychoanalysis and the unconscious mind. B.F. Skinner (choice B) was a behaviorist who studied operant conditioning. G. Stanley Hall (choice C) was a pioneering psychologist in the field of child development.

5. Sandy took part in the April 2013 Boston Marathon, where two bombs were detonated near the finish line, killing three spectators. For approximately 2 weeks after the marathon, Sandy was unable to sleep or concentrate and often found herself reliving the moment she heard the bombs explode. What disorder might Sandy be diagnosed with?

• A. Posttraumatic stress disorder
• B. Phobic disorder
• C. Panic disorder
• D. Acute stress disorder

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sandy might be diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD typically develops after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by symptoms such as re-experiencing the event, avoidance of reminders of the event, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and heightened reactivity. While acute stress disorder can occur shortly after a traumatic event, the duration of symptoms in the scenario suggests a more prolonged impact, aligning with PTSD. Phobic disorder and panic disorder are not as closely related to the described symptoms as PTSD.

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