neural plasticity is

ATI RN

Psychology 2301 Exam 1

1. Neural plasticity is ________.

A. the process by which neurotransmitters are broken down in the brain.
B. the flexibility of the brain—existing neural circuits can change or new ones can be made.
C. strong evidence of brain damage, leading to the development of a mental disorder.
D. the best indicator of temperament and its effect on the personality development of a child.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Neural plasticity refers to the brain's flexibility to change existing neural circuits or create new ones. Choice A is incorrect as it describes neurotransmitter breakdown, not neural plasticity. Choice C is incorrect because neural plasticity does not necessarily indicate brain damage leading to mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect because neural plasticity is not specifically related to temperament or personality development in children.

2. In the 5th substage of sensorimotor development, what does Piaget refer to as 'experimentation,' where the infant tries out new ways of playing with or manipulating objects?

A. Short-term memory
B. Working memory
C. Core memories
D. Long-term memory

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Long-term memory.' In the 5th substage of sensorimotor development, Piaget refers to 'experimentation' as tertiary circular reactions, where the infant tries out new ways of playing with or manipulating objects. This stage involves exploring and testing different ways of interacting with the world to understand cause and effect relationships. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with Piaget's concept of tertiary circular reactions and experimentation in the sensorimotor stage of development.

3. The four parenting styles described in the text differ along two dimensions: warmth and control. The style associated with the most positive developmental outcome is best described as in warmth and in control.

A. high; low
B. low; low
C. high; moderately high
D. low; moderately high

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'high in warmth and moderately high in control.' The authoritative parenting style, associated with the most positive developmental outcomes, is characterized by high levels of warmth and support coupled with moderately high levels of control. This balance allows children to develop independence while feeling secure and valued. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the authoritative style is not characterized by low warmth or low control, but rather high warmth and moderate control.

4. How can resilience impact the likelihood of developing a mental disorder?

A. Resilience has no impact on mental health outcomes.
B. Resilience can help individuals overcome significant stressors.
C. Resilience is irrelevant to mental health.
D. Resilience is the sole factor that determines mental health outcomes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Resilience plays a crucial role in mental health outcomes by enabling individuals to navigate and overcome stressors effectively, thus reducing the probability of developing mental disorders. Choice A is incorrect as resilience does have a positive impact on mental health. Choice C is incorrect as resilience is highly relevant to mental health outcomes. Choice D is incorrect because while resilience is important, it is not the only factor influencing mental health.

5. In a breech presentation, how is the infant positioned for delivery?

A. Is too large to be delivered vaginally.
B. Is delivered feet or bottom first.
C. Is delivered head first.
D. Appears face down.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a breech presentation, the infant is positioned to be delivered feet or bottom first. This is because the baby's pelvis or feet enter the birth canal before the head. Therefore, choice B is correct. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a breech presentation specifically refers to the baby being positioned feet or bottom first, not head first, face down, or being too large for vaginal delivery.