Human Growth and Development Exam 1

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: 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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a structured observation, each participant has an equal opportunity to display the behavior of interest because the researcher designs a specific set of conditions or tasks for all participants to engage in, providing a standardized environment for observation. This allows for fair and equitable observations across all participants, ensuring that each individual has the same opportunities to exhibit the behavior being studied. Choice A, clinical interview, typically involves a one-on-one interaction between a researcher and a participant focusing on collecting information through questions and answers, not providing equal opportunities for behavior display. Choice B, naturalistic observation, involves observing individuals in their natural environment without intervention or manipulation of conditions, which may not always ensure equal opportunities for behavior display. Choice D, case study, focuses on in-depth analysis of a single individual or a small group, providing detailed information but not necessarily ensuring equal opportunities for behavior display among participants.

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.

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.