Human Growth and Development Exam 1

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A structured interview involves asking individuals a predetermined set of questions in a set order. In this scenario, parents at Central Elementary School were given a multiple-choice questionnaire, which indicates that the questions were predetermined and likely asked in a specific order. This method allows for standardized data collection and comparison across participants. Choice B, clinical interview, involves in-depth questioning aimed at understanding an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to psychological issues, which is not the case here. Choice C, naturalistic observation, involves observing individuals in their natural environment without interference, which is not applicable to a questionnaire scenario. Choice D, structured observation, involves systematically observing behavior in predefined ways, not relevant to the given scenario of questionnaire responses.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Charles Darwin's theory of evolution emphasized natural selection and survival of the fittest. Natural selection is the process by which organisms with traits that help them survive and reproduce in their environment are more likely to pass on these traits to their offspring. Survival of the fittest refers to the idea that the organisms best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual evolution of species over time. Both concepts are central to Darwin's theory of evolution. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately reflect the key principles highlighted by Darwin in his theory of evolution.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Newborn infants who are brain damaged or who have experienced birth trauma often display disturbed REM-NREM sleep cycles. This disruption in the sleep cycle can be a sign of neurological issues and can impact the newborn's overall health and development. Choice B is incorrect because infants with brain damage or birth trauma may actually cry more due to their discomfort or neurological issues. Choice C is incorrect because spending about 20 percent of total sleep time in REM sleep is not necessarily specific to brain-damaged or birth-traumatized infants. Choice D is incorrect because having very low or inaudible cries is not a common characteristic associated with brain damage or birth trauma in infants.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: longitudinal. In a longitudinal design, participants are followed and studied over an extended period, allowing researchers to observe changes and continuity in development as individuals age. This design is crucial for understanding how individuals grow and change over time. Cross-sectional studies (Choice A) involve comparing different groups at the same time point, while experimental studies (Choice B) involve manipulating variables to observe their effects. Correlational studies (Choice D) examine relationships between variables but do not involve studying participants over time.

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.