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. Infant characteristics ________.

A. do not affect parental behavior.
B. only affect parental behavior when psychopathology is present.
C. are not influenced by biological factors.
D. can influence the quality of attachment relationships.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Infant characteristics can indeed influence the quality of attachment relationships. Parents often respond to their infants based on their characteristics, temperament, and needs. This interaction shapes the attachment bond between the parent and the child. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because infant characteristics do have an impact on parental behavior and are influenced by various factors, including biological ones.

3. What is a person's total genetic endowment?

A. Phenotype
B. Genotype
C. Chromosomes
D. DNA

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Genotype. A genotype refers to a person's total genetic endowment, representing the specific genetic makeup inherited from their parents. This includes all the genes and genetic information contained in an individual's DNA. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because: A) Phenotype refers to the observable characteristics resulting from the interaction of genetics and the environment; C) Chromosomes are physical structures that contain genes, not the total genetic endowment itself; D) DNA carries genetic information but is just one component of an individual's total genetic endowment.

4. a researcher found that there is a negative relationship between perceived parental perfectionism and life satisfaction. what does this mean?

A. Respondents who reported higher levels of perceived parental perfectionism are more likely to report higher levels of life satisfaction
B. Respondents who reported higher levels of perceived parental perfectionism are more likely to report lower levels of life satisfaction
C. Perceived parental perfectionism causes a decline in life satisfaction
D. Any of the above is correct

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A negative relationship means that as one variable increases, the other decreases, so higher perceived parental perfectionism is associated with lower life satisfaction.

5. Dr. Kali works with clients to help them learn deep relaxation. Next, he has them list their fears from least to most anxiety-provoking. Finally, Dr. Kali slowly exposes his clients to each of their fears and assists them in gaining control of their anxiety. His approach is best known as?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, systematic desensitization. This therapy involves a step-by-step exposure to feared stimuli, helping individuals manage and reduce their anxiety. In this case, Dr. Kali's method of listing fears from least to most anxiety-provoking and gradually exposing clients to them aligns with the principles of systematic desensitization. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Aversion therapy involves associating an undesirable behavior with an unpleasant stimulus, flooding involves immediate and intense exposure to feared stimuli, and 'fear therapy' is a broad term that does not specifically describe the systematic exposure and relaxation techniques used in systematic desensitization.