Human Growth and Development Exam 1

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Dr. Anderson should use an experimental design to determine the cause-and-effect relationship between domestic violence and anger in children. In an experimental design, the researcher manipulates the independent variable (in this case, exposure to domestic violence) to observe its effect on the dependent variable (anger in children). This design allows for the establishment of a cause-and-effect relationship by controlling for other variables that may influence the outcomes. Observational design (Choice B) involves observing subjects in their natural environment without interference, correlational design (Choice C) examines the relationship between variables without manipulating them, and structured design (Choice A) typically refers to a study with predetermined procedures and data collection methods, which may not be suitable for establishing cause-and-effect relationships.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A sequential design permits researchers to check if cohort effects are operating. This design involves combining cross-sectional and longitudinal research, allowing for the comparison of different cohorts at different ages. By using this approach, researchers can determine if developmental changes observed are due to age or generation-specific factors. Therefore, a sequential design is valuable in addressing the potential influence of cohort effects on developmental outcomes. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a sequential design does not neglect diversity in developmental outcomes, is not necessarily less efficient than a longitudinal design, and can make both cross-sectional and longitudinal comparisons.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Dr. George's prediction that positive reinforcement would increase prosocial behavior in preschoolers is an example of a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction about the relationship between variables based on existing knowledge or theories. In this case, Dr. George is making a prediction about the effect of positive reinforcement on prosocial behavior, which can be tested through research. Choice A, 'theory,' is incorrect because a theory is a broader explanation that integrates a range of findings and observations. Choice B, 'research question,' is incorrect as it refers to an inquiry that asks about the relationship between variables but lacks the specificity and testability of a hypothesis. Choice D, 'research design,' is incorrect as it pertains to the overall strategy or plan for conducting a research study, not the specific prediction Dr. George made.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Konrad Lorenz and Niko Tinbergen are considered the founders of ethology, a branch of biology and psychology that focuses on the study of animal behavior in natural environments. Their work laid the modern foundations for ethology, which examines the behavior of animals in relation to their natural habitats and evolutionary history. Choice B, social learning theory, is incorrect as it pertains to a different area of psychology that focuses on how people learn through observing others. Choice C, psychoanalytic theory, is also incorrect as it is a psychological theory developed by Sigmund Freud that emphasizes the role of unconscious conflicts in determining behavior. Choice D, cognitive-developmental theory, is incorrect as it refers to the work of Jean Piaget in understanding the development of human cognition in children.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Lev Vygotsky viewed cognitive development as a socially mediated process, emphasizing the role of social interactions and cultural influences in shaping a child's cognitive development. This is in contrast to Jean Piaget, who focused more on individual interactions with the environment. Vygotsky believed that cognitive development is significantly influenced by social interactions with others, highlighting the importance of collaborative learning and cultural context. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with Vygotsky's perspective on cognitive development.