the psychologist who took the position that organisms tend to repeat responses that lead to positive outcomes and tend not to repeat responses that le
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Exam 4 Psychology

1. Who took the position that organisms tend to repeat responses that lead to positive outcomes and tend not to repeat responses that lead to neutral or negative outcomes?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B.F. Skinner. Skinner proposed the theory of operant conditioning, where behavior is shaped by its consequences. Positive outcomes increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while neutral or negative outcomes decrease it. Sigmund Freud (choice A) is known for his psychoanalytic theory, Carl Rogers (choice C) for person-centered therapy, and Abraham Maslow (choice D) for the hierarchy of needs.

2. An inborn trait that is relatively permanent and differentiates one person from another is known as ________.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Temperament is the correct answer because it refers to an individual's inborn, relatively permanent trait that distinguishes one person from another. Genotype (choice A) refers to the genetic makeup of an organism, not necessarily a behavioral trait. Phenotype (choice B) is the observable characteristics of an organism resulting from the interaction between its genotype and the environment. Characteristic (choice D) is a broad term that can encompass various traits and features, but it does not specifically denote an inborn and relatively permanent trait that sets individuals apart.

3. The understanding of genetic influences on behavior may never be fully achieved due to ________.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because most behaviors are influenced by the interaction of multiple genes and the environment. Choice A is incorrect because it suggests that researching the effects of the environment and genes is easy, which is not the case. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on a specific method (twin studies) rather than the broader concept of gene-environment interaction. Choice D is incorrect as the statement implies a high level of understanding that contradicts the idea that genetic influences on behavior may never be fully understood.

4. Colleen found herself attracted to her psychology instructor. She would frequently go by his office just to be near him. When he didn't respond to her advances, Colleen eventually told him that she had thoughts of killing herself so that he would spend time trying to counsel her. What personality disorder best describes Colleen's thinking and behavior?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Colleen's behavior of seeking attention and manipulating others by threatening self-harm to elicit a response from her psychology instructor aligns with the characteristics of borderline personality disorder. This disorder is characterized by unstable relationships, impulsive actions, and efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not match Colleen's behavior as described in the scenario. Schizoid personality disorder is characterized by a lack of interest in social relationships, Schizotypal personality disorder involves social anxiety and odd behavior, and Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a disregard for others' feelings and violating their rights.

5. Which school of psychology is associated with understanding the purpose of behavior?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Functionalism. Functionalism, founded by William James, emphasizes understanding the purpose and adaptive function of behavior. This school of psychology focuses on how mental processes help individuals adapt to their environment. Choice B, Behaviorism, is incorrect as behaviorism emphasizes observable behaviors rather than the purpose behind them. Choice C, Neodynamism, is not a recognized school of psychology. Choice D, Psychoanalysis, founded by Sigmund Freud, focuses on unconscious processes and early childhood experiences, not specifically on the purpose of behavior.

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