Human Growth and Development Exam 1

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: During the last half of the first month of pregnancy, the nervous system develops the fastest among the options provided. This rapid development of the nervous system is crucial for the overall growth and functioning of the fetus. The nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord, which are essential for various bodily functions and will continue to develop throughout the pregnancy. The circulatory system, although important, does not develop at the fastest rate during this stage. The endocrine system and skin also play significant roles in the development of the fetus but are not the systems that develop the fastest in the last half of the first month of pregnancy.

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: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the third month of pregnancy (choice B). During the third month of pregnancy, which is around 9-12 weeks, a fetal heartbeat can typically be heard using a stethoscope. This is an exciting milestone for expectant parents as it provides reassurance about the baby's well-being. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because by the fourth week of pregnancy, the fetal heartbeat is not usually detectable with a stethoscope. The end of the second trimester and the beginning of the third trimester are too late in the pregnancy timeline for this milestone.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nonnormative. Nonnormative influences are events or experiences that are irregular and unique to the individual, so they do not follow a predictable timetable. These influences can include major life events like winning the lottery or experiencing a natural disaster, and they have a significant impact on a person's development. Choice B, History-graded influences, are events that are common to people of a particular generation due to historical circumstances. Choice C, Age-graded influences, are events that are typical for people of a certain age group. Choice D, Bio-historical, is not a recognized term in developmental psychology.

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.