a major limitation of systematic observation is that it

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Human Growth and Development Exam Questions

1. A major limitation of systematic observation is that it __________.

A. provides little information on how participants actually behave
B. tells investigators little about the reasoning behind responses and behaviors
C. underestimates the capacities of individuals who have difficulty putting their thoughts into words
D. ignores participants with poor memories, who may have trouble recalling exactly what happened

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A major limitation of systematic observation is that it tells investigators little about the reasoning behind responses and behaviors. Systematic observation focuses more on recording observable behaviors rather than delving into the underlying reasons or thought processes driving those behaviors. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because systematic observation can indeed provide detailed information on how participants actually behave, it doesn't necessarily underestimate the capacities of individuals who struggle with verbal expression, and it doesn't solely ignore participants with poor memories as it can capture behavior in real-time regardless of memory recall.

2. Baby Azeez's limb movements are gentle. He stirs occasionally, and facial grimacing occurs. Although his eyelids are closed, occasional rapid eye movements can be seen beneath them. Azeez is most likely in which state?

A. regular sleep
B. drowsiness
C. irregular sleep
D. quiet alertness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The description of Baby Azeez's behavior matches the characteristics of irregular sleep in a newborn. During irregular sleep, limb movements are gentle, occasional facial grimacing occurs, and rapid eye movements can be seen beneath closed eyelids. This state is also known as active sleep and is associated with dreaming in newborns. Choice A, regular sleep, is incorrect as the described behaviors are not typical of this state. Choice B, drowsiness, does not match the active movements and facial grimacing observed in Azeez. Choice D, quiet alertness, is also incorrect as it does not align with the described behaviors of limb movements, facial grimacing, and rapid eye movements.

3. Critics worry that fetal monitoring __________.

A. numbs the entire lower half of the body, making it difficult to feel contractions
B. is not helpful in detecting hidden problems with the baby
C. identifies babies as in danger who, in fact, are not
D. increases the likelihood of infant brain damage

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Critics worry that fetal monitoring may identify babies as in danger who, in fact, are not. This can lead to unnecessary interventions and stress for the parents. It is important to carefully consider the accuracy and benefits of fetal monitoring to avoid unnecessary harm to both the mother and the baby. Choice A is incorrect because fetal monitoring does not cause numbness in the lower half of the body. Choice B is incorrect as fetal monitoring is helpful in detecting hidden problems with the baby. Choice D is incorrect as there is no direct link between fetal monitoring and an increased likelihood of infant brain damage.

4. Max, age 65, learned to play the piano at a local senior center. Max demonstrates that __________.

A. aging is an eventual 'shipwreck'
B. learning follows a predictable timetable
C. development is plastic at all ages
D. musical talent peaks in late adulthood

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Max, age 65, learning to play the piano at a local senior center demonstrates that development is plastic at all ages. This means that individuals have the potential to learn and grow regardless of their age, showing that it is never too late to acquire new skills and experiences. Choice A is incorrect because it presents a negative view of aging, which is not supported by Max's actions. Choice B is incorrect as it implies that learning is restricted to certain age periods, which is contradicted by Max's experience. Choice D is incorrect because Max's learning of the piano at 65 suggests that musical talent can be developed at any age, not necessarily peaking in late adulthood.

5. In a cross-sectional design, researchers study __________.

A. the same group of participants repeatedly at different ages
B. groups of participants differing in age at the same point in time
C. groups of participants of the same age in different years
D. participants of the same age at the same point in time

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a cross-sectional design, researchers study groups of participants differing in age at the same point in time. This design allows researchers to compare different age groups simultaneously, providing valuable insight into age-related differences without the need to track the same group over time. Choice A is incorrect because it describes a longitudinal design where the same group is followed over time. Choice C is incorrect as it involves different groups of the same age studied at different times. Choice D is incorrect as it does not capture the essence of a cross-sectional design, which involves studying groups of different ages at the same point in time.