Psychology 101 Final Exam

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'less cortical gray matter than those raised by their parents.' Studies have shown that children raised in orphanages tend to have less cortical gray matter compared to those raised by their parents. This is due to the lack of individualized care, attention, and stimulation that can negatively impact brain development. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because there is no direct correlation between cortical gray matter and the number of friendships when comparing children raised in orphanages and those raised by their parents.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Freud's major contribution to current perspectives of mental disorders is the concept of the unconscious and its influence on behavior. While the Oedipal complex (Choice A) and Electra complex (Choice C) are important psychoanalytic concepts introduced by Freud, they are more focused on childhood psychosexual development rather than mental disorders. The understanding of the three structures of personality (Choice D) refers to Freud's id, ego, and superego model, which is essential in psychoanalytic theory but not specifically related to mental disorders.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Id. In psychodynamic theory, the Id is the component driven by basic, primal instincts, seeking instant gratification without consideration for consequences. It operates on the pleasure principle, aiming to fulfill desires immediately. The Superego, on the other hand, represents the internalized moral standards and ideals, while the Ego mediates between the Id and Superego, balancing impulses with societal norms. The 'Ideal self' is a concept from humanistic psychology related to one's aspirations and goals, not a component in psychodynamic theory. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model explains that the onset of mental disorders results from the interaction of genetic vulnerability (diathesis) and environmental stress. Choice A is incorrect because stress alone is not sufficient, according to the model. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies by attributing mental disorders solely to genetic factors. Choice D is incorrect because the model emphasizes the joint contribution of genetic predisposition and environmental stress.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The synapse is the correct answer. It is the site where communication between neurons occurs through the release and reception of neurotransmitters. Choice A, neuron, is incorrect as it is the cell itself rather than a specific site of communication. Choice C, axon, is also incorrect as it is a part of the neuron that transmits signals away from the cell body. Choice D, dendrite, is not the correct answer either, as dendrites receive signals from other neurons but do not release neurotransmitters for communication.