ATI RN
Psychological Exam
1. Which field of psychology studies attitude change and group behavior?
- A. Developmental psychology
- B. Social psychology
- C. Psychoanalysis
- D. Psychometrics
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Social psychology. Social psychology specifically focuses on studying topics like attitude change and group behavior. Developmental psychology (Choice A) primarily deals with human growth and development across the lifespan. Psychoanalysis (Choice C) is a theoretical approach to psychology developed by Sigmund Freud focusing on the unconscious mind and childhood experiences. Psychometrics (Choice D) involves the measurement of psychological variables such as intelligence, personality traits, and abilities.
2. What neurotransmitter was first believed to be the cause of schizophrenia?
- A. GABA
- B. Serotonin
- C. Epinephrine
- D. Dopamine
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is Dopamine. Dopamine was initially thought to be the primary cause of schizophrenia. This neurotransmitter hypothesis was based on the observation that drugs that increase dopamine activity can worsen symptoms of schizophrenia, while drugs that decrease dopamine activity can improve symptoms. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because GABA, serotonin, and epinephrine were not the neurotransmitters initially believed to be the cause of schizophrenia.
3. What does the genetic study of identical twins reared apart help to clarify?
- A. Differences in brain function
- B. Genetic influence on behavior
- C. Interaction between genetics and environment
- D. The role of environmental factors alone
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Interaction between genetics and environment.' The genetic study of identical twins reared apart helps in understanding how both genetics and environment play a role in shaping an individual's traits and behaviors. This type of study allows researchers to tease apart the effects of genetic inheritance from those of environmental influences. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the study of identical twins reared apart specifically focuses on the interplay between genetics and environment, rather than solely on differences in brain function, genetic influence on behavior, or the role of environmental factors alone.
4. A psychologist who is interested in the psychological effect of aging would most likely specialize in?
- A. Developmental psychology.
- B. Experimental psychology.
- C. Cognitive psychology.
- D. Psychometrics.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A psychologist interested in the psychological effect of aging would most likely specialize in developmental psychology. Developmental psychology focuses on studying the psychological changes that occur throughout a person's lifespan, including the effects of aging. Experimental psychology primarily deals with conducting experiments to study behavior and cognitive processes. Cognitive psychology focuses on mental processes like perception, memory, and problem-solving. Psychometrics involves the measurement of psychological variables such as intelligence, aptitude, and personality traits, but it does not specifically address the psychological effects of aging as in developmental psychology.
5. Why is it discouraged to use terms such as 'schizophrenic', 'autistic', and 'retarded' when referring to people with mental illness?
- A. These terms are no longer in the DSM
- B. There are only a small number of people diagnosed with these terms
- C. There is nothing wrong in using these terms
- D. Because people with mental illness are not defined by their condition
Correct answer: D
Rationale: It is discouraged to use terms like 'schizophrenic', 'autistic', and 'retarded' when referring to people with mental illness because people with mental illness should not be defined solely by their condition. Using such labels can reduce individuals to just their diagnosis, overlooking their individuality and other aspects of their identity. It is essential to treat individuals with mental illness with respect and dignity, focusing on their humanity rather than reducing them to a label. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the main reason for discouraging these terms lies in not defining individuals by their conditions, rather than the terms being in or out of the DSM, the number of diagnosed individuals, or the perception of whether there is anything wrong with using such terms.
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