the goal of applied behavior analysis is to

ATI RN

Human Growth and Development Exam 1

1. What is the goal of applied behavior analysis?

A. outline changes in temperament over the lifespan
B. eliminate undesirable behaviors and increase desirable responses
C. examine how we think about ourselves and other people
D. synthesize information from various sources into a detailed picture of a person's personality

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "eliminate undesirable behaviors and increase desirable responses." Applied behavior analysis aims to modify behavior by focusing on eliminating unwanted behaviors and reinforcing desirable ones. It does not primarily deal with changes in temperament (choice A), self-perception (choice C), or personality traits (choice D). The approach involves techniques such as reinforcement to target specific behaviors, rather than broader cognitive processes or personality characteristics.

2. The force of blood flowing through the __________ keeps it firm.

A. amnion
B. umbilical cord
C. yolk sac
D. embryonic disk

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The force of blood flowing through the umbilical cord keeps it firm. The umbilical cord is the connection between the placenta and the fetus, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the developing baby. Blood flow through the umbilical cord helps maintain its structure and function throughout the prenatal period. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not play a role in providing nutrients and oxygen to the developing baby or in maintaining its firmness.

3. How does physical activity impact mental health?

A. Reduces anxiety and depression
B. Improves mood, but decreases alertness
C. Decreases mood, alertness, and energy
D. Decreases neural activity in the cerebral cortex

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Physical activity is known to have a positive impact on mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Choice B is incorrect because physical activity generally improves both mood and alertness. Choice C is incorrect as physical activity tends to increase mood, alertness, and energy levels. Choice D is incorrect as physical activity actually increases neural activity in the cerebral cortex, which is associated with improved cognitive function and mental well-being.

4. Mothers who __________ have fewer birth complications and shorter labors.

A. choose cesarean delivery
B. give birth at home
C. are supported by a trained companion during childbirth
D. are administered epidural analgesia during childbirth

Correct answer: C

Rationale: According to research, mothers who are supported by a trained companion during childbirth have fewer birth complications and shorter labors. This support can reduce stress and anxiety levels, provide comfort and encouragement, and help the mother feel more in control during labor and delivery. Overall, having a trained companion present can contribute to a more positive childbirth experience for the mother. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the research findings that specifically highlight the benefits of having a trained companion during childbirth.

5. Professor Higgins is concerned about the findings of a longitudinal study on childhood depression that she conducted between 1985 and 2015 in New York because many of the participants witnessed the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Professor Higgins is concerned about __________ effects.

A. practice
B. cross-sectional
C. dropout
D. cohort

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The concern Professor Higgins has regarding the findings of the longitudinal study is related to cohort effects. Cohort effects occur when a specific group of individuals experience a common event or circumstance that could influence the results of a study. In this case, the participants witnessing the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center could have had a significant impact on their development and mental health outcomes, leading to cohort effects observed in the study. Choice A, 'practice,' is incorrect as it refers to the repeated performance of an activity to improve skill. Choice B, 'cross-sectional,' is incorrect as it involves data collection at a single point in time. Choice C, 'dropout,' is incorrect as it refers to participants leaving a study prematurely.