Human Growth and Development Exam Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A major limitation of systematic observation is that it tells investigators little about the reasoning behind responses and behaviors. Systematic observation focuses more on recording observable behaviors rather than delving into the underlying reasons or thought processes driving those behaviors. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because systematic observation can indeed provide detailed information on how participants actually behave, it doesn't necessarily underestimate the capacities of individuals who struggle with verbal expression, and it doesn't solely ignore participants with poor memories as it can capture behavior in real-time regardless of memory recall.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: An experimental design permits inferences about cause and effect because researchers evenhandedly assign people to treatment conditions. This means that researchers can manipulate certain variables and observe the effects on participants, allowing them to determine causation between variables. This is a key strength of experimental research designs. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the primary purpose or strength of experimental designs. Experimental designs do not focus on gathering information in natural life circumstances (A), looking at relationships between characteristics and behavior (B), or have the limitation of not being able to infer cause and effect (D).

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Fetal monitoring is required in most U.S. hospitals during labor and delivery to track the baby's heart rate and the mother's contractions. This helps healthcare providers to assess the well-being of the fetus and make timely decisions regarding the need for interventions if any complications arise. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because fetal monitoring is a standard procedure in most hospitals to ensure the safety and health of both the mother and the baby during labor.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The blank in the statement refers to an approach that can be used in combination with an experimental strategy. Longitudinal and cross-sectional approaches are two common research methods in developmental psychology. Longitudinal studies involve following the same group of individuals over an extended period, while cross-sectional studies compare different groups of individuals of different ages at the same time. By combining an experimental strategy with either a longitudinal or a cross-sectional approach, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of developmental processes and changes over time. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because correlational and sequential are not the most relevant approaches when studying developmental changes over time in research.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, nurture. Nurture refers to the environmental influences that shape behavior and development. In this scenario, Justin's adoptive mother believes that providing sensitive caregiving will override the negative effects of his early experiences in the orphanage, highlighting the importance of nurture in promoting healthy development. Choice B, stages, is incorrect as it refers to the sequence of developmental milestones individuals pass through. Choice C, stability, is incorrect as it pertains to the consistency of behavior or development over time. Choice D, nature, is incorrect as it relates to genetic and biological factors influencing development, which is not the focus of Justin's mother's beliefs.