Human Growth and Development Exam Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a cross-sectional design, researchers study groups of participants differing in age at the same point in time. This design allows researchers to compare different age groups simultaneously, providing valuable insight into age-related differences without the need to track the same group over time. Choice A is incorrect because it describes a longitudinal design where the same group is followed over time. Choice C is incorrect as it involves different groups of the same age studied at different times. Choice D is incorrect as it does not capture the essence of a cross-sectional design, which involves studying groups of different ages at the same point in time.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. During prenatal development, the ectoderm folds over to form the neural tube, which eventually develops into the brain and spinal cord. The neural tube is the precursor to the central nervous system, including the primitive spinal cord. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the mesoderm does not form the neural tube, the endoderm is not involved in the formation of the central nervous system, and neuron tract is not the structure that forms the primitive spinal cord.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Small-for-date infants more often show evidence of brain damage than preterm infants. This can be attributed to factors such as intrauterine growth restriction and poor nutrition during pregnancy, which can affect the development of the baby's brain. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because there is no evidence to support that small-for-date infants catch fewer infections, are less likely to die, or have higher intelligence tests compared to preterm infants.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum will shrink. As a result, the lining of the uterus is discarded through the process of menstruation. This shedding of the uterine lining is what causes menstrual bleeding. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not describe the physiological response of the body when pregnancy does not occur. The corpus luteum shrinking and the subsequent shedding of the uterine lining are part of the menstrual cycle, not processes related to cell duplication, zygote multiplication, or the duration of the germinal period.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Research indicates that a childbirth leave of 12 weeks or more leads to favorable outcomes for maternal physical and mental health, supportive marital interaction, and sensitive caregiving. This extended period of leave allows mothers to recover physically, adjust psychologically, and establish strong bonds with their newborn, which ultimately benefits the whole family. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not provide the optimal duration needed for mothers to experience the full range of benefits associated with an extended childbirth leave.