a major strength of the longitudinal design is that researchers can

ATI RN

Human Growth and Development Final Exam

1. What is a major strength of the longitudinal design?

A. Examine relationships between early and later behaviors
B. Collect a large amount of data in a short time span
C. Explore similarities among children of different cohorts
D. Study participants differing in age at the same point in time

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A major strength of the longitudinal design is that researchers can examine relationships between early and later behaviors. This design allows researchers to observe and track changes in the same participants over an extended period of time, providing valuable insights into developmental trajectories and how behaviors are connected across different stages of life. Choice B is incorrect because longitudinal studies track changes over time, not necessarily collect a large amount of data in a short time span. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to cross-sectional studies rather than longitudinal studies. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a cross-sectional design where participants of different ages are studied at the same time.

2. To overcome some of the limitations of traditional developmental designs, investigators sometimes use __________ designs, in which they conduct several similar cross-sectional or longitudinal studies.

A. sequential
B. experimental
C. correlational
D. quasi-experimental Answer: A Page Ref: 36 Skill Level: Remember Topic: Studying Development Difficulty Level: Easy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sequential designs involve conducting multiple similar cross-sectional or longitudinal studies to overcome limitations of traditional developmental designs. By combining different types of study designs, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of development over time. This approach allows for more robust conclusions and can help address potential confounding variables that may impact the results.

3. Which statement about a blastocyst is true?

A. It consists of a single cell.
B. It is a structure that feeds the developing organism.
C. Between the seventh and ninth days, it burrows deep into the uterine lining.
D. It is a membrane that helps to keep the temperature of the prenatal world constant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The statement that is true about a blastocyst is that between the seventh and ninth days, it burrows deep into the uterine lining. This process, known as implantation, is essential for the blastocyst to establish a connection with the mother's body and receive nutrients for further development. It is a critical stage in prenatal development and sets the foundation for pregnancy. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. A blastocyst is not a single cell but rather a structure composed of many cells. It is not a structure that feeds the developing organism; instead, it implants in the uterine lining to receive nutrients. It is not a membrane that regulates temperature but plays a crucial role in the initial stages of pregnancy by implanting in the uterus.

4. Which of the following best describes a sequential design?

A. Does not address diversity in developmental outcomes.
B. Permits researchers to check if cohort effects are operating.
C. Is less efficient than a longitudinal design.
D. Makes cross-sectional, but not longitudinal, comparisons.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A sequential design permits researchers to check if cohort effects are operating. This design involves combining cross-sectional and longitudinal research, allowing for the comparison of different cohorts at different ages. By using this approach, researchers can determine if developmental changes observed are due to age or generation-specific factors. Therefore, a sequential design is valuable in addressing the potential influence of cohort effects on developmental outcomes. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a sequential design does not neglect diversity in developmental outcomes, is not necessarily less efficient than a longitudinal design, and can make both cross-sectional and longitudinal comparisons.

5. According to Jean Piaget, what is the balance between internal structures and information that children encounter in their everyday worlds?

A. imitation
B. adaptation
C. cognition
D. equilibrium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: According to Jean Piaget, equilibrium is the balance between what children already know (internal structures) and the new information they encounter. Imitation (choice A) is not directly related to this concept. Adaptation (choice B) involves adjusting to new information and is part of Piaget's theory, but it does not specifically refer to the balance between internal structures and external information. Cognition (choice C) is a broader term that encompasses mental processes, including thinking, learning, and problem-solving, but it is not specifically about the balance between internal structures and external information as equilibrium is.