Nursing Elites

1. The process of ________ is used to increase the probability that a behavior will occur.

• A. operant conditioning
• B. reinforcement
• C. classical conditioning
• D. punishment

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is reinforcement. Reinforcement involves providing a consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Operant conditioning (Choice A) refers to learning through consequences for behavior, which includes reinforcement and punishment. Classical conditioning (Choice C) involves forming associations between stimuli and involuntary responses. Punishment (Choice D) involves providing a consequence that decreases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. In this context, the question specifically asks about a process that increases the probability of a behavior occurring, aligning with the concept of reinforcement.

2. A predisposition toward developing a disorder is termed a ________.

• A. diathesis
• B. comorbidity
• C. genotype
• D. phenotype

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A diathesis is indeed the correct term for a predisposition toward developing a disorder. A diathesis refers to an underlying vulnerability or predisposition to a particular condition. Choice B, 'comorbidity,' refers to the presence of two or more disorders in the same individual. Choice C, 'genotype,' relates to an individual's genetic makeup. Choice D, 'phenotype,' refers to the observable characteristics of an organism resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment. Therefore, A is the most appropriate term for describing a predisposition toward developing a disorder.

3. Strict behaviorists would be most sympathetic to which one of the following statements?

• A. Human behavior is primarily caused by inherited factors.
• B. Human behavior is primarily caused by environmental factors.
• C. Human behavior is primarily caused by equal contributions of inherited and environmental factors.
• D. No one really knows the primary causes for human behavior.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Strict behaviorists, who adhere to behaviorism, believe that human behavior is primarily influenced by environmental factors. This perspective asserts that individuals' actions and responses are shaped by their interactions with the environment, learning experiences, and external stimuli. Choice A is incorrect because strict behaviorists do not focus on inherited factors but on how behavior is learned and shaped through environmental influences. Choice C is also incorrect as behaviorists do not believe in equal contributions of inherited and environmental factors; they emphasize environmental determinants. Choice D is incorrect as behaviorists have a clear stance that behavior is influenced by environmental stimuli and learning experiences.

4. Who is credited with establishing psychology as a distinct scientific field, separate from other disciplines?

• A. G. Stanley Hall
• B. René Descartes
• C. William James
• D. Wilhelm Wundt

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Wilhelm Wundt is the correct answer as he is credited with establishing psychology as a distinct scientific field. Wundt founded the first laboratory dedicated to experimental psychology in 1879, which marked the beginning of psychology as a separate discipline. While the other individuals mentioned in the choices have made significant contributions to the field of psychology, Wilhelm Wundt is specifically known for his pioneering work in establishing psychology as a unique and independent discipline.

5. Charles has suffered from schizophrenia for many years and now resides in a group treatment facility. One day a nurse approaches him and quietly tells him that his sister, who has been fighting cancer for many months, died that morning. Charles has no appreciable facial reaction and in a very monotone voice says, 'okay.' The nurse is not surprised by Charles's lack of response to the awful news because she knows that _________ is one symptom often seen in those suffering from schizophrenia?

• A. Clang associations
• B. Echolalia
• C. Blunted affect
• D. Perseveration

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In individuals with schizophrenia, blunted affect, or reduced emotional expression, is a common symptom. In this scenario, Charles's lack of emotional response upon hearing about his sister's death aligns with the characteristic of blunted affect. This symptom can manifest as a limited range of facial expressions, monotone voice, and reduced display of emotions. Choice A, 'Clang associations,' refers to a thought disorder characterized by the use of words that sound alike but are not logically connected. Choice B, 'Echolalia,' is the repetition of words spoken by others. Choice D, 'Perseveration,' is the persistent repetition of a response or behavior even when it is no longer appropriate.

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