how do early life experiences shape brain development and behavior

ATI RN

Psychology 2301 Exam 1

1. How do early life experiences shape brain development and behavior?

A. Early life experiences have no impact on brain development.
B. Early life experiences are crucial in shaping brain development and later behavior.
C. Early life experiences are not significant in brain development.
D. Early life experiences are easily overcome by adulthood.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 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.

2. The baby coos and the mom smiles, so the baby coos again to get mom to smile again. Piaget would say that this action is an example of?

A. Reflexes
B. Primary circular reactions
C. Secondary circular reactions
D. Tertiary circular reactions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Secondary circular reactions. Secondary circular reactions are repeated actions that infants engage in to trigger a response from the environment, such as the baby cooing to make the mom smile. This behavior is characterized by a focus on the external environment and the repetition of actions to achieve a desired response. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Reflexes (choice A) are automatic, involuntary responses to a stimulus, while primary circular reactions (choice B) involve the repetition of actions primarily for the infant's own enjoyment rather than to elicit a response from the environment. Tertiary circular reactions (choice D) refer to the experimentation with new behaviors and variations in the way the infant interacts with the environment.

3. Which of the following is NOT a culture-bound syndrome?

A. Hikikomori
B. Zar
C. Hoopa
D. Koro

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Hoopa,' as it is not recognized as a culture-bound syndrome. A culture-bound syndrome refers to a cluster of symptoms that are recognized and named within a specific cultural group but may not be recognized universally. Hikikomori is a culture-bound syndrome in Japan where individuals isolate themselves from social interactions. Zar is a culture-bound syndrome found in Africa and the Middle East characterized by episodes of laughing, crying, and singing. Koro is a culture-bound syndrome, primarily documented in Asian cultures, where individuals have an intense fear of genital retraction.

4. What is object-relations theory?

A. It is the theory that focuses on observable behaviors only.
B. It is a newer psychodynamic theory focusing on how individuals interact with others and their internalized relationships.
C. It is the theory that emphasizes the importance of cognitive processes in shaping behavior.
D. It is a cognitive-behavioral theory focused on changing maladaptive thought patterns.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Object-relations theory is a psychodynamic theory that focuses on how individuals interact with others and their internalized relationships. Choice A is incorrect because object-relations theory goes beyond observable behaviors to explore internalized relationships. Choice C is incorrect because object-relations theory does not primarily emphasize cognitive processes. Choice D is incorrect because object-relations theory is not a cognitive-behavioral theory focused on changing thought patterns.

5. What role do genetic predispositions play in the development of mental disorders?

A. Genetic predispositions solely determine the development of mental disorders.
B. Genetic predispositions play a role but are not solely responsible for the development of mental disorders.
C. Genetic predispositions have no influence on mental disorders.
D. Genetic predispositions guarantee the development of mental disorders.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic predispositions are indeed a factor in the development of mental disorders, but they are not the sole determining factor. While genetics can predispose individuals to certain conditions, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and life experiences also play a significant role. Choice A is incorrect because mental disorders are influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Choice C is incorrect as genetic predispositions do have an impact on mental health. Choice D is incorrect as genetic predispositions do not guarantee the development of mental disorders, as other factors also contribute to their onset.