pruning is best defined as

ATI RN

Exam 4 Psychology

1. How is pruning best defined?

A. The process of eliminating unused synapses
B. The process of synapse development
C. The connection between neurons
D. Fatty sheath that wraps around neurons and enables them to transmit information more rapidly

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pruning is the process of eliminating unused synapses in the brain. This process helps the brain to become more efficient by strengthening important connections and eliminating unnecessary ones. Choice B is incorrect because pruning is about eliminating synapses, not developing them. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the general concept of connections between neurons, not specifically about pruning. Choice D is incorrect as it describes the myelin sheath, which is responsible for rapid transmission of information along neurons, not pruning.

2. Cortisol is a hormone that ________

A. is released by the hypothalamus and travels to the pituitary gland, causing it to respond.
B. the pituitary gland releases to stimulate the adrenal gland.
C. the adrenal gland produces that mobilizes the body to deal with stress.
D. reduces the reuptake of the monoamine neurotransmitters.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland that mobilizes the body to deal with stress. It helps regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and assist in memory formulation. Choice A is incorrect as cortisol is not released by the hypothalamus and does not travel to the pituitary gland. Choice B is incorrect as cortisol is not released by the pituitary gland but acts on it to regulate hormone production. Choice D is incorrect as cortisol does not reduce the reuptake of monoamine neurotransmitters.

3. Dr. Kali works with clients to help them learn deep relaxation. Next, he has them list their fears from least to most anxiety-provoking. Finally, Dr. Kali slowly exposes his clients to each of their fears and assists them in gaining control of their anxiety. His approach is best known as?

A. Systematic desensitization
B. Aversion therapy
C. Flooding
D. Fear therapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, systematic desensitization. This therapy involves a step-by-step exposure to feared stimuli, helping individuals manage and reduce their anxiety. In this case, Dr. Kali's method of listing fears from least to most anxiety-provoking and gradually exposing clients to them aligns with the principles of systematic desensitization. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Aversion therapy involves associating an undesirable behavior with an unpleasant stimulus, flooding involves immediate and intense exposure to feared stimuli, and 'fear therapy' is a broad term that does not specifically describe the systematic exposure and relaxation techniques used in systematic desensitization.

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. Latresha is not hungry, is extremely tired, and doesn't feel like doing much of anything. She often feels that life is just hopeless. These symptoms have been going on for 2 months now. She probably is suffering from which mood disorder?

A. Generalized anxiety disorder
B. Bipolar disorder
C. Major depressive disorder
D. Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Major Depressive Disorder. Latresha's symptoms of prolonged sadness, fatigue, and lack of interest in activities lasting for 2 months indicate a major depressive episode. Generalized anxiety disorder (A) is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety, not necessarily prolonged sadness. Bipolar disorder (B) involves episodes of both mania and depression, not solely prolonged sadness. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (D) is characterized by obsessions and compulsions, not the symptoms described in the scenario.