Psychology 2301 Exam 1

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct definition of resilience is the ability to adapt successfully to difficult circumstances, not avoiding stress entirely. Resilience is significant in mental health as it helps individuals overcome adversity rather than avoiding it. Choice A is incorrect as resilience doesn't mean avoiding all mental health issues but rather dealing with stress effectively. Choice C is incorrect as resilience involves facing and overcoming stress, not being unaffected by it. Choice D is incorrect as resilience involves facing challenges and stress, not avoiding them altogether.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Neural plasticity refers to the brain's flexibility to change existing neural circuits or create new ones. Choice A is incorrect as it describes neurotransmitter breakdown, not neural plasticity. Choice C is incorrect because neural plasticity does not necessarily indicate brain damage leading to mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect because neural plasticity is not specifically related to temperament or personality development in children.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities. This avoidance can prevent individuals from dealing with underlying issues, leading to the development or exacerbation of psychopathological conditions. Choice A is incorrect because while defense mechanisms may serve as coping mechanisms, they can also contribute to psychopathology when used excessively or inappropriately. Choice C is incorrect as defense mechanisms are indeed connected to psychopathology. Choice D is incorrect because defense mechanisms, when maladaptive, can contribute to psychopathology rather than being considered healthy coping strategies.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Projection. Projection is the defense mechanism where one attributes their own unacceptable feelings to others. In this scenario, Julia is projecting her feelings of guilt and shame onto her husband by accusing him of cheating. Sublimation (choice A) involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities. Displacement (choice B) is redirecting emotions from the original source to a substitute target. Rationalization (choice D) is providing logical explanations to justify unacceptable behavior, which is not applicable in this context.