Nursing Elites

1. A theory of development __________.

• A. illustrates the ultimate truth about human behavior
• B. describes, explains, and predicts behavior
• C. explains all aspects of human growth
• D. does not require scientific verification

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A theory of development describes, explains, and predicts behavior. It provides a framework for understanding how individuals grow and change over time. The purpose of a theory is not to illustrate ultimate truth or explain all aspects of human growth, but rather to help researchers and practitioners make sense of and predict human behavior. Theories are expected to be tested and refined through scientific verification. Choice A is incorrect because theories do not necessarily illustrate ultimate truth. Choice C is incorrect as theories focus on behavior and development, not all aspects of human growth. Choice D is incorrect because scientific verification is essential for theories to be valid and reliable.

2. During Irina's first week of pregnancy, __________.

• A. heart muscles begin to develop
• B. the zygote multiplies and forms a blastocyst
• C. a primitive brain and spinal cord appear
• D. the embryo can move

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During the first week of pregnancy, the zygote (fertilized egg) undergoes rapid cell divisions and forms a blastocyst. This is a crucial stage where the cells differentiate and specialize, setting the foundation for the development of the embryo. It is during this time that the zygote implants itself into the uterine wall, initiating the process of pregnancy. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because during the first week of pregnancy, the focus is on the initial development and multiplication of the zygote, not on the development of heart muscles, a primitive brain and spinal cord, or the embryo's ability to move.

3. 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.

4. According to operant conditioning theory, __________.

• A. the frequency of a behavior can be increased through punishment, such as disapproval
• B. normal development must be understood in relation to each culture's life situation
• C. the id develops as parents insist that children conform to the values of society
• D. the frequency of a behavior can be increased by following it with a wide variety of reinforcers

Correct answer: D

Rationale: According to operant conditioning theory, the frequency of a behavior can be increased by following it with a wide variety of reinforcers. In operant conditioning, behaviors are shaped through reinforcement, which can be positive (rewarding) or negative (removal of something unpleasant). By providing reinforcement following a behavior, the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future is increased. This supports the notion that the frequency of a behavior can be increased by using reinforcers in operant conditioning. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because operant conditioning focuses on the relationship between behavior and its consequences through reinforcement (positive or negative) to increase the likelihood of the behavior recurring, rather than punishment, cultural influences, or the development of the id based on societal values.

5. Theorists who contend that powerful negative events in the first few years cannot be fully overcome by later, more positive ones emphasize __________.

• A. plasticity
• B. stability
• C. nurture
• D. discontinuity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Theorists who emphasize stability argue that powerful negative events early in life cannot be completely overcome by later, more positive experiences. They believe that early experiences have a lasting impact on development and are not easily erased or reversed by subsequent events. This perspective contrasts with the idea of plasticity, which suggests that development can be influenced by experiences at any point in life, and that individuals have the capacity for change and growth throughout the lifespan. 'Nurture' does not directly address the concept of overcoming negative events, while 'discontinuity' refers to developmental stages being separate and distinct, not the idea that negative events early in life persist despite later positive experiences.

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