Human Growth and Development Exam 1

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A theory of development describes, explains, and predicts behavior. It provides a framework for understanding how individuals grow and change over time. The purpose of a theory is not to illustrate ultimate truth or explain all aspects of human growth, but rather to help researchers and practitioners make sense of and predict human behavior. Theories are expected to be tested and refined through scientific verification. Choice A is incorrect because theories do not necessarily illustrate ultimate truth. Choice C is incorrect as theories focus on behavior and development, not all aspects of human growth. Choice D is incorrect because scientific verification is essential for theories to be valid and reliable.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The placenta delivers food and oxygen to the developing organism during pregnancy. It is a temporary organ that forms in the first trimester of pregnancy. Choice A is incorrect as the placenta forms in the first trimester, not the second trimester. Choice B is incorrect as the amniotic sac, not the placenta, encloses the developing organism in amniotic fluid. Choice C is incorrect as the placenta contains blood vessels (arteries and veins) that deliver nutrients to the embryo, not just one large vein.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Prenatally malnourished babies frequently catch respiratory illnesses. Malnourished babies have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to illnesses such as respiratory infections. This is a common consequence that is observed in babies who did not receive adequate nutrition during the prenatal period. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. While malnourished babies may have feeding challenges, rejecting breast milk is not a common consequence. Enlarged hearts are not typically associated with prenatal malnutrition, and having a higher-than-average birth weight is unlikely in malnourished babies.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: According to Piaget's theory of cognitive development, four-year-old R���‚��„�Monte's engagement in make-believe play, such as pretending to stir beads in a bowl and creating imaginary soup, indicates that he is in the preoperational stage of cognitive development. This stage is characterized by symbolic thinking, pretend play, language development, and egocentrism. Choice A, sensorimotor, is incorrect as this stage occurs in infancy and focuses on sensory experiences and object permanence. Choice C, concrete operational, is incorrect as this stage occurs around ages 7-11 and involves logical reasoning about concrete events. Choice D, sociocultural, is incorrect as it does not correspond to Piaget's stages of cognitive development.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the third month of pregnancy (choice B). During the third month of pregnancy, which is around 9-12 weeks, a fetal heartbeat can typically be heard using a stethoscope. This is an exciting milestone for expectant parents as it provides reassurance about the baby's well-being. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because by the fourth week of pregnancy, the fetal heartbeat is not usually detectable with a stethoscope. The end of the second trimester and the beginning of the third trimester are too late in the pregnancy timeline for this milestone.