ATI RN
Exam 4 Psychology
1. 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.
2. How do neurotransmitters affect behavior and mental processes?
- A. Neurotransmitters have little effect on behavior.
- B. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that influence mood, thought, and behavior.
- C. Neurotransmitters have a minor role in mental health.
- D. Neurotransmitters determine intelligence levels.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Neurotransmitters are chemicals that influence mood, thought, and behavior, playing a significant role in mental health. Choice A is incorrect as neurotransmitters do have a notable effect on behavior. Choice C is incorrect as neurotransmitters have a major role in mental health. Choice D is incorrect as neurotransmitters do not solely determine intelligence levels.
3. Distinguish between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes of abnormal behavior.
- A. Necessary causes are required for a disorder to develop but do not guarantee it.
- B. Sufficient causes guarantee a disorder will develop, but they are not required.
- C. Contributory causes increase the likelihood of a disorder but are neither necessary nor sufficient.
- D. Contributory causes are conditions that guarantee the occurrence of a disorder.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In understanding abnormal behavior, it is crucial to differentiate between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes. Necessary causes are those that are required for a disorder to develop, meaning that without them, the disorder would not occur. However, their presence does not guarantee the occurrence of the disorder. Sufficient causes, on the other hand, are those that alone can guarantee the development of a disorder, but they are not the only factors that can lead to it. Contributory causes are factors that increase the likelihood of a disorder but are not essential on their own nor do they guarantee the disorder. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the role of necessary causes in the development of abnormal behavior. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they misrepresent the definitions and roles of sufficient and contributory causes in causing abnormal behavior.
4. What is the term for the age of an unborn baby, usually dated from the first day of an expectant mother's last menstrual cycle?
- A. Mental age
- B. Chronological age
- C. Functional age
- D. Gestational age
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, Gestational age. Gestational age is calculated from the first day of the expectant mother's last menstrual cycle, providing an estimate of how far along the pregnancy is. Mental age (choice A), refers to an individual's level of cognitive functioning in relation to others of the same age group. Chronological age (choice B) is a person's actual age in years. Functional age (choice C) refers to how well a person is able to perform various activities compared to their chronological age.
5. What would a humanist most likely say about Manny's passivity?
- A. Manny will find it difficult to change because he probably has deep-seated feelings of inferiority.
- B. Manny can become more assertive once he begins to feel better about himself and recognizes that he has the ability to fulfill his potential.
- C. Manny simply needs to take an assertiveness training class in which he can learn and practice assertive behaviors.
- D. Manny should undergo analysis so that he can begin to resolve whatever unconscious conflict is at the root of his passivity.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Humanists believe in the inherent goodness and potential of individuals. They would most likely say that Manny can become more assertive by improving his self-esteem and recognizing his abilities. Choice A is incorrect because humanists focus on self-actualization rather than deep-seated feelings of inferiority. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the issue by suggesting a training class can solve the problem without addressing underlying beliefs. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests a psychoanalytic approach, while humanists usually emphasize personal growth and self-improvement.
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