Human Growth and Development Exam Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The major strength of the information-processing approach to development is its commitment to rigorous research methods. This approach emphasizes systematic observation, measurement, and experimentation to study cognitive development in individuals. By using rigorous research methods, researchers can gather reliable and valid data to better understand how information is processed in the human mind. This commitment to methodological rigor enhances the credibility and validity of the conclusions drawn within the information-processing approach to development. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the information-processing approach focuses on empirical research methods rather than the study of imagination, case study interviews, or disproving other developmental theories.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: G. Stanley Hall is generally regarded as the founder of the child study movement. He established the first American research laboratory dedicated to child psychology and education, helping to pioneer the scientific study of child development. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they were not primarily associated with founding the child study movement. Charles Darwin is known for his contributions to the theory of evolution, Alfred Binet is famous for developing the first intelligence test, and Sigmund Freud is renowned for his work in psychoanalysis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Observations of imprinting in animals, such as ducklings following the first moving object they see after hatching, led to the major concept of the critical period in human development. The critical period is a specific time frame during which an organism must experience certain stimuli to develop properly. This concept has been influential in understanding various aspects of human development, such as language acquisition and social attachment. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Adaptation refers to adjusting to the environment, equilibrium is about balance in cognitive processes, and classical conditioning is a learning process associated with behaviorism, none of which directly relate to the concept derived from imprinting observations.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Dr. Singh's beliefs align with Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory of development. Erikson proposed that individuals go through a series of psychosocial stages, with each stage characterized by a basic conflict that must be resolved to achieve healthy development. This conflict is resolved along a continuum from positive to negative outcomes. Choice A, G. Stanley Hall, is incorrect as his work focused on adolescence and evolutionary psychology. Choice B, Sigmund Freud, is incorrect as his psychoanalytic theory is more focused on the unconscious mind and psychosexual stages. Choice D, B. F. Skinner, is incorrect as he is associated with behaviorism and operant conditioning, which is different from Erikson's psychosocial theory.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: T. Berry Brazelton's Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (NBAS) evaluates a newborn's reflexes, muscle tone, state changes, and responsiveness to stimulation. This assessment helps healthcare providers understand the newborn's behavioral responses and capabilities in various areas, providing valuable insights into their overall development and well-being. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the NBAS focuses on assessing the newborn's behavioral responses and capabilities, rather than their risk for developmental problems, compliance with commands, or physiological parameters like heart rate and respiratory effort.