what are some common methods used to study genetic influences on behavior

ATI RN

Psychology 2301 Exam 1

1. What are some common methods used to study genetic influences on behavior?

A. Genetic influences are studied only through twin studies.
B. Common methods include twin studies, adoption studies, and gene mapping.
C. Genetic influences on behavior are only studied through family history.
D. Genetic influences on behavior are not well understood.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Common methods used to study genetic influences on behavior include twin studies, adoption studies, and gene mapping. Twin studies help to compare the similarities between identical and fraternal twins to estimate the heritability of a trait. Adoption studies look at the similarities between adopted children and their biological and adoptive parents to determine genetic influences. Gene mapping involves identifying specific genes associated with certain behaviors. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because genetic influences on behavior are not solely studied through twin studies or family history, and while the understanding of genetic influences may vary, there are established methods to study them.

2. Sandy took part in the April 2013 Boston Marathon, where two bombs were detonated near the finish line, killing three spectators. For approximately 2 weeks after the marathon, Sandy was unable to sleep or concentrate and often found herself reliving the moment she heard the bombs explode. What disorder might Sandy be diagnosed with?

A. Posttraumatic stress disorder
B. Phobic disorder
C. Panic disorder
D. Acute stress disorder

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sandy might be diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD typically develops after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by symptoms such as re-experiencing the event, avoidance of reminders of the event, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and heightened reactivity. While acute stress disorder can occur shortly after a traumatic event, the duration of symptoms in the scenario suggests a more prolonged impact, aligning with PTSD. Phobic disorder and panic disorder are not as closely related to the described symptoms as PTSD.

3. What does incidence refer to?

A. How many new cases of a disorder occur during a given period of time
B. How many people have recovered from a disorder in a given period of time
C. The percentage of males and females who have a disorder
D. How many people in the population as a whole have a disorder

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'How many new cases of a disorder occur during a given period of time.' Incidence specifically measures the rate of occurrence of new cases of a particular condition within a defined population and time frame. This distinguishes it from prevalence, which includes both new and existing cases. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately define the term 'incidence.' Choice B refers to recovery, choice C mentions gender distribution, and choice D relates to the total population affected by a disorder, which are not reflective of the concept of incidence.

4. Which of the following is an appropriate description of a child with conduct disorder?

A. They may argue repeatedly with adults, ignore adult rules and requests, deliberately annoy other people, and feel much anger and resentment
B. They have great difficulty attending to tasks, or behave overactively and impulsively, or both
C. Marked by extreme unresponsiveness to other people, severe communication deficits, and highly rigid and repetitive behaviors, interests, and activities
D. They are often aggressive, deliberately destroy other people's property, steal or lie, skip school, or run away from home

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Children with conduct disorder often exhibit behaviors such as arguing with adults, ignoring rules, deliberately annoying others, and displaying anger and resentment. Choice B describes symptoms more characteristic of ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). Choice C describes symptoms commonly seen in individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Choice D outlines behaviors associated with oppositional defiant disorder rather than conduct disorder.

5. To overcome her fear of balloons due to the loud sound they might make when popping, Bella must sit in a room filled with balloons while the therapist pops each one. After a while, Bella realizes that her fear is unjustified and even begins to pop balloons herself. This technique is known as?

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

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Flooding. Flooding is an exposure therapy technique where a person is exposed to their fear at full intensity until the fear subsides. In this scenario, Bella is exposed to her fear of balloons in a controlled environment until she realizes her fear is unjustified. Choice A, Systematic desensitization, involves gradual exposure to the fear stimulus paired with relaxation techniques. Choice B, Aversion therapy, aims to create a negative association with a stimulus to reduce unwanted behavior. Choice D, Extinction, refers to the gradual decrease in the strength or frequency of a conditioned response.