Free Psychology Exams practice for Psychology 101 Final Exam (ATI RN). Answer 44 nursing exam-style questions with rationales, exam mode, and progress tracking
Which orientation focuses on symptoms rather than looking at underlying causes?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is A: Psychodynamic. The psychodynamic orientation focuses on symptoms rather than underlying causes, emphasizing the importance of the unconscious mind. This approach views symptoms as manifestations of underlying psychological issues rooted in the unconscious. Choice B, Adlerian, is focused on individual psychology, social interests, and the importance of feelings of inferiority. Choice C, Jungian, is based on analytical psychology and the concepts of the collective unconscious and archetypes. Choice D, Behavioral, concentrates on observable behaviors and how they are learned and reinforced through interactions with the environment, rather than focusing on underlying causes.
A psychologist who is interested in the psychological effect of aging would most likely specialize in?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
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.
Larry is a graduate student whose major area of interest is social psychology. What should you expect that Larry is most interested in?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is C. Social psychology focuses on how individuals relate to each other, influence each other, and interact within social groups. This field is more concerned with social interactions and behaviors rather than physical or genetic factors influencing behavior (choice A), internal factors leading to consistent behavior (choice B), or changes in behavior and mental processes over a lifetime (choice D). Therefore, the most appropriate area of interest for Larry, being a graduate student in social psychology, would be how people relate to and influence each other.
What is the biopsychosocial model, and why is it important?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The biopsychosocial model is a model that integrates biological, psychological, and social factors. It is important because it recognizes the interconnectedness of these factors in influencing an individual's mental health. Option B is incorrect because the biopsychosocial model does not focus solely on biological factors. Option C is incorrect as the model does not exclude social factors. Option D is incorrect as the model does not focus solely on psychological factors.
How can resilience impact the likelihood of developing a mental disorder?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is B. Resilience plays a crucial role in mental health outcomes by enabling individuals to navigate and overcome stressors effectively, thus reducing the probability of developing mental disorders. Choice A is incorrect as resilience does have a positive impact on mental health. Choice C is incorrect as resilience is highly relevant to mental health outcomes. Choice D is incorrect because while resilience is important, it is not the only factor influencing mental health.
What are psychology's intellectual parents?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Psychology's intellectual parents are philosophy and physiology. Philosophy contributed to the early development of psychology by exploring questions about the mind and behavior, while physiology provided a scientific foundation for understanding the biological aspects of human psychology. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately represent the disciplines that significantly influenced the emergence of psychology as a distinct field of study.
Distinguish between assimilation and accommodation.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is B. Assimilation is when new experiences are interpreted in terms of existing schemas, meaning individuals try to fit new information into their pre-existing understanding of the world. Accommodation, on the other hand, involves adjusting our schemas to fit new information, which means changing our existing mental frameworks when new information doesn't fit. Choice A is incorrect because it describes accommodation rather than assimilation. Choice C is incorrect as it confuses assimilation with social adaptation. Choice D is incorrect as assimilation and accommodation are fundamental processes in cognitive development, as described by Piaget.
Unlike other types of anxiety disorders, this one is not triggered by anything specific, hence the name free-floating anxiety.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is B, Generalized anxiety disorder. Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by persistent and excessive worry or anxiety that is not triggered by specific situations or objects, hence the term 'free-floating anxiety.' Social anxiety disorder (A) is characterized by fear and anxiety about social situations, panic disorder (C) involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks, and specific phobia (D) is an intense fear of a specific object or situation. Therefore, B is the most appropriate choice in the context of anxiety not being triggered by specific stimuli.
Distinguish between authoritative and authoritarian parenting.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is B. Authoritative parents are warm and communicative while also setting firm limits, creating a balanced and nurturing environment. Authoritarian parents, on the other hand, are controlling, less communicative, and tend to set strict rules without much room for discussion. This approach may lead to children becoming irritable and moody due to the lack of warmth and excessive control. Choices A and C incorrectly mix up the characteristics of authoritative and authoritarian parenting. Choice D, although mentioning irritable children, does not accurately capture the key differences between authoritative and authoritarian parenting styles.
In a breech presentation, how is the infant positioned for delivery?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
In a breech presentation, the infant is positioned to be delivered feet or bottom first. This is because the baby's pelvis or feet enter the birth canal before the head. Therefore, choice B is correct. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a breech presentation specifically refers to the baby being positioned feet or bottom first, not head first, face down, or being too large for vaginal delivery.
Understanding the causes of mental disorders is important because ________
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Understanding the causes of mental disorders is crucial because it can potentially lead to both prevention and cure. By identifying the root causes, strategies can be developed to prevent the onset of disorders, and effective treatments can be tailored to address these causes directly. This approach can make treatments more efficient, as addressing the underlying factors contributing to the disorder can result in better outcomes for individuals. Choices A and B are incorrect because while understanding causes is important for effective treatment and classification, the primary focus is on prevention and cure. Choice D, while highlighting the impact of disagreements on advancements in abnormal psychology, does not directly address the importance of understanding causes for prevention and cure.
Cortisol is a hormone that ________.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland that mobilizes the body to deal with stress. Therefore, choice C is the correct answer. Choices A and B are incorrect as they inaccurately describe the origin and function of cortisol. Choice D is also incorrect as it describes the action of a different type of substance, not cortisol.
How can attributional style influence the likelihood of developing depression?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is D because attributional style plays a crucial role in influencing the likelihood of developing depression by shaping how individuals interpret and respond to events. A positive attributional style can indeed enhance resilience against depression by promoting adaptive coping mechanisms and positive interpretations of situations, which can buffer against the development of depressive symptoms. Conversely, a negative attributional style, characterized by attributing negative events to internal, stable, and global factors, can increase vulnerability to depression by fostering feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Choices A and C provide accurate insights into how different attributional styles can impact the development of depression, making them incorrect. Choice B is incorrect as research indicates that attributional style does have a significant influence on the likelihood of developing depression.
When examining heredity, mental disorders are almost always ________.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
When examining heredity and mental disorders, it is important to note that these conditions are influenced by multiple genes working together. Mental disorders are complex traits that arise from the interplay of various genetic and environmental factors. Therefore, choice B, 'influenced by multiple genes,' is the correct answer. Choice A, 'influenced by one particular gene,' is incorrect because mental disorders typically do not result from the action of a single gene. Choice C, 'influenced by recessive genes,' is incorrect as it oversimplifies the genetic basis of mental disorders. Choice D, 'not influenced by genes,' is also incorrect as genes play a significant role in the development of mental disorders.
Studies on the cultural differences in parental tolerance of under- or over-controlled behavior suggest that ________.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Studies on the cultural differences in parental tolerance of under- or over-controlled behavior suggest that these different styles can produce different rates of problem behaviors in different cultures. This is because cultural norms and expectations influence how parental tolerance and responses to behavior are shaped. Choice B is incorrect because parental styles do play a role in behavior problems, influenced by cultural factors. Choice C is incorrect as parental styles can vary across cultures and impact behavior problems differently. Choice D is incorrect because cultural attitudes towards seeking treatment for behavior problems can vary significantly.
Where is the site of chemical communication in the brain?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is B: Synapse. The synapse is the site where chemical communication occurs between neurons. Neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of one neuron, cross the synaptic cleft, and bind to receptors on the dendrites of the next neuron. Choice A, Neuron, is incorrect as it refers to the entire nerve cell. Choices C and D, Axon and Dendrite, are also incorrect as they are specific parts of a neuron and not the primary site of chemical communication.
Latresha is not hungry, is extremely tired, and doesn't feel like doing much of anything. She often feels that life is just hopeless. These symptoms have been going on for 2 months now. She probably is suffering from which mood disorder?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is C, Major Depressive Disorder. Latresha's symptoms of prolonged sadness, fatigue, and lack of interest in activities lasting for 2 months indicate a major depressive episode. Generalized anxiety disorder (A) is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety, not necessarily prolonged sadness. Bipolar disorder (B) involves episodes of both mania and depression, not solely prolonged sadness. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (D) is characterized by obsessions and compulsions, not the symptoms described in the scenario.
Which perspective or viewpoint focuses on intrapsychic conflicts as the cause of psychopathology?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is C: Psychodynamic. The psychodynamic perspective emphasizes the role of intrapsychic conflicts, often related to unconscious processes, in the development of psychopathology. This perspective, founded by Sigmund Freud, suggests that unresolved conflicts from early childhood experiences can manifest as mental health issues. Choice A, Biological, focuses on the physiological aspects of psychopathology, such as genetics and neurobiology. Choice B, Behavioral, looks at how behavior is learned and reinforced. Choice D, Sociocultural, considers the influence of social and cultural factors on mental health.
What is a person's total genetic endowment?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is B: Genotype. A genotype refers to a person's total genetic endowment, representing the specific genetic makeup inherited from their parents. This includes all the genes and genetic information contained in an individual's DNA. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because: A) Phenotype refers to the observable characteristics resulting from the interaction of genetics and the environment; C) Chromosomes are physical structures that contain genes, not the total genetic endowment itself; D) DNA carries genetic information but is just one component of an individual's total genetic endowment.
What are substances, such as viruses and drugs, that can cause birth defects?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Teratogens are substances that can cause birth defects, especially if exposure occurs during critical periods of development. In this context, teratogens refer to external agents that can interfere with the development of the embryo or fetus, leading to structural or functional abnormalities. Choice B, Placenta, is incorrect as it is an organ that develops during pregnancy to provide nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and remove waste products. Choice C, Parturition, refers to the process of giving birth and is not related to substances that cause birth defects. Choice D, Androgens, are male sex hormones and are not associated with causing birth defects.
How do early life experiences shape brain development and behavior?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Early life experiences are crucial in shaping brain development and later behavior. These experiences play a significant role in laying the foundation for future mental health and behavior. Choice A is incorrect because early life experiences do have a profound impact on brain development. Choice C is incorrect as early life experiences are indeed significant in brain development. Choice D is incorrect as early life experiences can have lasting effects into adulthood.
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?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
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.
Which characteristics are associated with adults fixated in the anal stage?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is A: 'Orderliness, obstinacy, or messiness.' According to Freud's psychosexual theory, fixation in the anal stage can lead to these characteristics in adulthood. Choice B is incorrect as fixation in the oral stage is associated with issues related to dependency and aggression. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the Electra complex, which is not related to the anal stage fixation. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to penis envy and the female Oedipus complex, which are not directly related to characteristics of adults fixated in the anal stage.
Which of the following is an example of telegraphic speech?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is B. Telegraphic speech is when a child uses a two-word phrase to convey a larger meaning, such as 'mama water.' Choice A is incorrect as it does not demonstrate telegraphic speech but rather a simple labeling. Choice C is incorrect as it is a complete sentence and not a two-word phrase. Choice D is also incorrect as it does not describe telegraphic speech but rather a vague statement about communication.
What is the significance of early intervention in preventing mental disorders?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Early intervention is crucial in preventing or mitigating the development of mental disorders by addressing issues before they fully develop. Choice A is incorrect because early intervention plays a significant role in preventing mental disorders. Choice C is incorrect as early intervention aims to improve mental health outcomes. Choice D is incorrect as early intervention is effective across various stages of mental health conditions, not just in severe cases.
Which parenting style is characterized by warmth, control, and communication?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is C. The authoritative parenting style is characterized by a balance of warmth, control, and communication. This style promotes a nurturing environment where rules are established, but there is also room for open communication and understanding. Choice A, Authoritarian, is characterized by high control and low warmth, with strict rules and limited communication. Choice B, Permissive/indulgent, is characterized by high warmth and low control, with few rules and little discipline. Choice D, Neglectful/uninvolved, is characterized by low warmth, low control, and lack of communication or involvement in the child's life.
You are taking part in a survey that asks about your attitudes toward physical punishment of children. Even though you believe that spanking is sometimes necessary, you answer that you are opposed to any sort of physical punishment. Which of the following terms best describes why you answered the way you did?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is D, social desirability. Social desirability bias occurs when respondents answer questions in a way they think will be viewed favorably by others, rather than according to their true beliefs. In this scenario, the respondent may feel pressured to provide an answer that aligns with societal norms or expectations, even if it contradicts their personal beliefs. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Random responding refers to answering survey questions haphazardly, without consideration. Faking bad is intentionally providing extreme or negative responses. The placebo effect is a phenomenon where a person's belief in a treatment's effectiveness produces a positive outcome, unrelated to the treatment's actual effects.
Roger has suffered a major brain injury. As a result, he is unable to speak fluently, tends to mispronounce words, and speaks haltingly. For instance, he says 'wat' instead of 'watch' and 'tot' instead of 'talk.' What is the diagnosis?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct diagnosis for Roger's condition is Broca's aphasia. Broca's aphasia is characterized by difficulty in speaking fluently and accurately, often due to brain injury. In this case, Roger's symptoms of being unable to speak fluently, mispronouncing words, and speaking haltingly align with the characteristics of Broca's aphasia. Agnosia refers to the inability to recognize or interpret sensory information, spatial neglect is the lack of awareness of one side of the body or space, and prosopagnosia is the inability to recognize faces, none of which match Roger's symptoms.
One important contribution of Freud's theory was that ________.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Freud's important contribution was that he applied the same principles to both normal and abnormal behavior. This approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of human behavior without creating a rigid distinction between normal and abnormal psychology. Choice A is incorrect because Freud's theory did not primarily focus on the role of women in society. Choice B is incorrect as Freud's theories were largely based on clinical observations and case studies rather than experimental evidence. Choice D is incorrect as Freud's theory emphasized the unconscious mind and conflicts rather than solely focusing on positive growth for individuals.
According to the diathesis-stress model, having a predisposition towards mental illness...
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
According to the diathesis-stress model, having a predisposition towards mental illness increases the risk but does not guarantee the development of a mental disorder. Choice A is incorrect as the model does not imply certainty. Choice B is incorrect as having a predisposition does affect the chances. Choice D is incorrect as the model does have an impact on the likelihood of developing a mental disorder.
What does the diathesis-stress model entail?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The diathesis-stress model proposes that mental disorders develop from a combination of genetic vulnerability (the diathesis) and environmental stressors. Choice A is incorrect because it states that stress alone can cause mental disorders, which is not in line with the model. Choice C is incorrect as it simplifies the model to genetic factors alone causing mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests that environmental stressors do not play a role in the onset of mental disorders, which contradicts the essence of the diathesis-stress model.
The interpersonal perspective ________.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The interpersonal perspective emphasizes social rather than inner determinants of behavior. Choice A is incorrect as the interpersonal perspective focuses on social interactions rather than being a reaction against psychoanalysis. Choice B is incorrect as the interpersonal perspective is not specifically attributed to Erik Erikson. Choice D is incorrect as the most influential humanistic perspective today would be humanistic psychology, not the interpersonal perspective.
What is the current view of developmentalists regarding important changes throughout the entire human lifespan?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is 'Lifespan perspective.' This perspective highlights that significant developmental changes occur throughout a person's entire life, emphasizing continuous growth and development. Choice A, 'Multicultural perspective,' refers to the consideration of cultural influences on development rather than the timeline of changes. Choice C, 'Atypical development,' pertains to deviations from typical developmental patterns and is not directly related to the continuous changes across the lifespan. Choice D, 'Maturation,' specifically refers to the biological process of growth and development, which is different from the broader concept of developmental changes occurring across the lifespan.
An elementary school principal wants to know the best predictors of juvenile delinquency and dropping out of school in high school so she can provide preventive interventions. Your best advice is ________.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The best advice is to look for aggression toward peers as the best predictor of juvenile delinquency and dropping out of school. Option A is incorrect because being popular or a class clown doesn't necessarily indicate delinquency. Option B is incorrect as not all silent, depressed loners end up as dropouts. Option C is incorrect as research shows that early signs of aggression can predict future delinquent behavior and school dropout rates, making it feasible to intervene early.
Kai and Ken received their Christmas gifts from their parents. Although their gifts vary in many characteristics, the two compared their gifts based on size. This tendency among children is known as:
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is D, Overextension. Overextension happens when children compare objects or experiences based on one characteristic, such as size. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Semiotic refers to the study of signs and symbols; Abstraction is the process of thinking about something as a general concept rather than a specific example; Preoperational is a stage in Piaget's theory of cognitive development, not related to comparing gifts based on size.
Which of the following perspectives focuses on social determinants of behavior?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The interpersonal perspective focuses on social determinants of behavior, emphasizing the impact of social interactions, relationships, and communication on an individual's behavior. This perspective looks at how people's behavior is influenced by their interactions with others and the social environment. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not primarily focus on social determinants of behavior. The attachment perspective is concerned with emotional bonds between individuals, the humanistic perspective emphasizes personal growth and self-fulfillment, and the existential perspective focuses on individual freedom and responsibility in creating meaning in life.
What term refers to the awareness that other people have their own intentions, desires, wants, and motives?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is 'Theory of mind.' Theory of mind is the understanding that others have their own thoughts, feelings, and intentions. This ability allows individuals to attribute mental states to others, enabling them to understand and predict behavior based on those mental states. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not specifically address the awareness of others' intentions, desires, wants, and motives.
What is extinction, and how might it be used in treating a disorder?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Extinction is the process of eliminating a conditioned response by repeatedly presenting the conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus. This process helps in reducing or eliminating undesired behaviors or responses. Choice A is incorrect because extinction weakens the conditioned response by breaking the association between the conditioned stimulus and the unconditioned stimulus. Choice C is incorrect as extinction is a widely used technique in behavioral therapies for treating disorders. Choice D is incorrect as extinction aims to reduce the conditioned response, not intensify it.
Which neurotransmitter is reduced in both the manic and depressive phases of bipolar disorder?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is D, Serotonin. Serotonin levels are reduced during both the manic and depressive phases of bipolar disorder. Acetylcholine (choice A) is not typically linked to bipolar disorder. Dopamine (choice B) and norepinephrine (choice C) are more commonly associated with conditions like schizophrenia and depression, respectively, rather than bipolar disorder. Therefore, they are not the neurotransmitters reduced in both manic and depressive phases of bipolar disorder.
Freud's view of mental disorders was that they were a result of ________.
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Freud believed that mental disorders were a result of unresolved conflicts between the id, ego, and superego. This concept is central to Freud's psychoanalytic theory, where conflicts between these three components of personality lead to psychological distress. Choice B is incorrect because Freud focused more on unconscious conflicts rather than genetic abnormalities. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to later psychodynamic theories rather than Freud's specific view. Choice D is incorrect as Freud's perspective does not emphasize learned behaviors as the primary cause of mental disorders.
Rita shows better control over her eating habits at 2.5 years than her brother Richard did at the same age. Why?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is D because boys typically develop gross motor skills, like running and jumping, more quickly than girls. This can explain why Richard may have had less control over his eating habits compared to Rita at the same age. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not address the specific developmental aspect related to eating habits control mentioned in the question.
Which psychosexual stage focuses on castration anxiety?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
Castration anxiety is a concept from Freudian psychoanalytic theory that occurs during the Phallic stage. This stage occurs between 3 to 6 years of age and is when children experience conflicts related to the Oedipus complex (boys) and Electra complex (girls). During this stage, children may fear castration (in boys) or penis envy (in girls), which are crucial components of castration anxiety. Therefore, the correct answer is Phallic. The other options (A: Genital, B: Oral, C: Anal) are incorrect as they do not specifically involve castration anxiety but rather represent different stages in Freud's psychosexual development theory.
Finding meaning in life and dealing with death form core values in which of the following perspectives?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct answer is A: Existential. Existentialism is a philosophical perspective that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It focuses on finding meaning in life and dealing with fundamental issues such as death. This perspective is characterized by concepts like authenticity, responsibility, and the search for purpose. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while they may address certain aspects of human behavior or relationships, they do not specifically emphasize the search for meaning and the confrontation with death as core values.
Which of the following statements about brain dysfunction and psychiatric disorders is correct?
Select the best answer.
Explanation:
The correct statement is C: 'Changes in brain function appear to play a role in many psychiatric disorders.' This statement is accurate as research suggests that alterations in brain function are associated with various psychiatric disorders. Option A is incorrect because while brain damage can contribute to some psychiatric conditions, it is not always the primary cause. Option B is incorrect as brain damage typically increases the risk of developing psychiatric disorders. Option D is incorrect because while brain development can be influenced by experiences, it does not always decrease the risk of psychiatric conditions.
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