the psychologist who took the position that organisms tend to repeat responses that lead to positive outcomes and tend not to repeat responses that le
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Exam 4 Psychology

1. Who took the position that organisms tend to repeat responses that lead to positive outcomes and tend not to repeat responses that lead to neutral or negative outcomes?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B.F. Skinner. Skinner proposed the theory of operant conditioning, where behavior is shaped by its consequences. Positive outcomes increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while neutral or negative outcomes decrease it. Sigmund Freud (choice A) is known for his psychoanalytic theory, Carl Rogers (choice C) for person-centered therapy, and Abraham Maslow (choice D) for the hierarchy of needs.

2. What is the diathesis-stress model of psychopathology?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model of psychopathology posits that individuals must have a vulnerability or predisposition to a disorder (diathesis) and be exposed to stressful environmental factors for the disorder to manifest. This model emphasizes the interaction between genetic or biological vulnerabilities (diathesis) and environmental stressors. Choice A is incorrect because the model does not suggest that stress is the sole cause of psychopathology. Choice B is incorrect as the model considers both genetic predispositions and environmental stressors. Choice C is incorrect because the diathesis-stress model acknowledges the role of both genetic and environmental factors in the development of disorders.

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

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.

4. How do defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities. This avoidance can prevent individuals from dealing with underlying issues, leading to the development or exacerbation of psychopathological conditions. Choice A is incorrect because while defense mechanisms may serve as coping mechanisms, they can also contribute to psychopathology when used excessively or inappropriately. Choice C is incorrect as defense mechanisms are indeed connected to psychopathology. Choice D is incorrect because defense mechanisms, when maladaptive, can contribute to psychopathology rather than being considered healthy coping strategies.

5. Which psychosexual stage focuses on castration anxiety?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Castration anxiety is a concept from Freudian psychoanalytic theory that occurs during the Phallic stage. This stage occurs between 3 to 6 years of age and is when children experience conflicts related to the Oedipus complex (boys) and Electra complex (girls). During this stage, children may fear castration (in boys) or penis envy (in girls), which are crucial components of castration anxiety. Therefore, the correct answer is Phallic. The other options (A: Genital, B: Oral, C: Anal) are incorrect as they do not specifically involve castration anxiety but rather represent different stages in Freud's psychosexual development theory.

Similar Questions

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