distinguish between assimilation and accommodation

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test

1. Distinguish between assimilation and accommodation.

A. Assimilation refers to adjusting our mental frameworks to incorporate new information.
B. Assimilation is when new experiences are interpreted in terms of existing schemas.
C. Assimilation is adapting our behaviors to match societal norms.
D. Assimilation and accommodation are unrelated to cognitive development.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 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.

2. When examining heredity, mental disorders are almost always ________.

A. influenced by one particular gene.
B. influenced by multiple genes.
C. influenced by recessive genes.
D. not influenced by genes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 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.

3. Which of the following explanations for the relationship between SES and abnormal behavior is not supported by the existing data?

A. Low SES may cause abnormal behavior.
B. Abnormal behavior is more likely to go untreated in those of low SES.
C. Recovery from loss of a job may be more difficult for those exhibiting signs of mental illness.
D. High SES may cause abnormal behavior.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because high SES as a cause for abnormal behavior is not supported by existing data. Abnormal behavior is often associated with factors like stress, trauma, genetics, or environmental influences. High SES is not a known cause of abnormal behavior. Choices A, B, and C are more plausible explanations: Low SES may lead to limited access to mental health care, untreated abnormal behavior due to financial constraints, and difficulties in coping with mental health issues after job loss, respectively.

4. Which of the following best describes a securely attached child in Japanese culture?

A. A child who is dependent, emotionally restrained, and can express his feelings only in an indirect manner.
B. A child who is independent, emotionally expressive, and can communicate well.
C. A child who is dependent, emotionally labile, and can express his feelings only in an aggressive manner.
D. A child who is independent, emotionally restrained, and can communicate well.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In Japanese culture, a securely attached child is described as dependent and emotionally restrained. This means that the child relies on their caregiver for support and is able to control their emotions, expressing their feelings in a more subtle and indirect manner. Choice B is incorrect as it describes independence, which is not characteristic of a securely attached child in Japanese culture. Choice C is also incorrect as it describes emotional lability and expressing feelings aggressively, which are not typical of securely attached children. Choice D is incorrect as it combines independence with emotional restraint, which does not align with the characteristics of a securely attached child in Japanese culture.

5. Which of the following statements is true?

A. Most behavioral disorders are determined exclusively by genes.
B. Genes play a role in most mental disorders.
C. Genes do not affect biochemical processes.
D. The genes that will be expressed in an individual are not affected by experience.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Genes play a role in most mental disorders.' This statement is true as genes do play a significant role in the development of various mental disorders. Choice A is incorrect because most behavioral disorders are influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and other factors, not exclusively genes. Choice C is incorrect as genes do affect biochemical processes. Choice D is incorrect because the expression of genes in an individual can be influenced by experiences and environmental factors, a concept known as gene-environment interaction.