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. 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.

3. How can attributional style influence the likelihood of developing depression?

A. By fostering a positive attributional style, individuals can enhance their resilience against depression.
B. Attributional style does not significantly influence the development of depression.
C. By adopting a negative attributional style, individuals increase their vulnerability to depression.
D. Attributional style influences the likelihood of developing depression by determining how individuals interpret and respond to events.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because attributional style plays a crucial role in influencing the likelihood of developing depression by shaping how individuals interpret and respond to events. A positive attributional style can indeed enhance resilience against depression by promoting adaptive coping mechanisms and positive interpretations of situations, which can buffer against the development of depressive symptoms. Conversely, a negative attributional style, characterized by attributing negative events to internal, stable, and global factors, can increase vulnerability to depression by fostering feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Choices A and C provide accurate insights into how different attributional styles can impact the development of depression, making them incorrect. Choice B is incorrect as research indicates that attributional style does have a significant influence on the likelihood of developing depression.

4. Where is the site of chemical communication in the brain?

A. Neuron
B. Synapse
C. Axon
D. Dendrite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Synapse. The synapse is the site where chemical communication occurs between neurons. Neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of one neuron, cross the synaptic cleft, and bind to receptors on the dendrites of the next neuron. Choice A, Neuron, is incorrect as it refers to the entire nerve cell. Choices C and D, Axon and Dendrite, are also incorrect as they are specific parts of a neuron and not the primary site of chemical communication.

5. Which of the following groups of psychologists would be most likely to focus on individual uniqueness, freedom, and potential for growth as a person?

A. Behaviorists
B. Psychoanalysts
C. Humanists
D. Gestalt psychologists

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Humanists. Humanistic psychologists emphasize individual uniqueness, freedom, and the potential for personal growth. They believe in the importance of personal experiences and self-actualization. Behaviorists (choice A) focus on observable behaviors and environmental influences. Psychoanalysts (choice B) are more concerned with unconscious processes and early childhood experiences. Gestalt psychologists (choice D) concentrate on perception and the organization of experience, rather than individual uniqueness and personal growth.