Human Growth and Development Final Exam

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Taking tests and answering questionnaires are examples of research methods. Research methods refer to the specific approaches used in conducting research, such as collecting data, analyzing information, and drawing conclusions. In this case, tests and questionnaires are tools used to gather information and data for research purposes, making them examples of research methods. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because research designs refer to the overall structure and plan of a study, theories are explanations developed through research and observation, and hypotheses are specific predictions or statements that can be tested through research.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Jade was using ethnography. Ethnography involves the systematic study of people and cultures through participant observation and interviews. In this case, Jade spent two years in a Mexican-American community studying communication between parents and children, which aligns with the methodology of ethnography. Ethnography allows researchers to gain an in-depth understanding of a particular cultural group's behaviors, practices, and beliefs. Choice A, naturalistic observation, involves observing subjects in their natural environment without interference or manipulation. While similar to ethnography in some aspects, naturalistic observation does not typically involve the same level of cultural immersion and participant interaction as ethnography. Choice C, self-reports, refers to data collected directly from participants about their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. This method relies on participants' subjective responses and may not provide the same depth of cultural insights as ethnography. Choice D, structured observation, involves observing behavior in a structured and controlled environment. Unlike ethnography, structured observation does not focus on the cultural nuances and immersive study of a specific community.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In an experiment, the independent variable is the one that the investigator expects to cause changes in another variable. It is the factor that is deliberately manipulated or changed by the researcher to observe its effects on the dependent variable. The purpose of manipulating the independent variable is to study its impact on the outcome, allowing researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships in their investigations. Choice A is incorrect because the independent variable is not influenced but rather influences another variable. Choice C is incorrect as the independent variable is intentionally manipulated by the researcher. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a different concept unrelated to the independent variable in an experiment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Self-reports can range from relatively unstructured interviews to highly structured interviews, questionnaires, and tests. This variety allows researchers to collect information from participants in different ways, depending on the research goals and the type of information being sought. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the range and flexibility of self-reports as outlined in the field of research methodology.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: According to research on family chaos, mothers who frequently multitask experience greater psychological stress. Multitasking can lead to increased stress levels as individuals juggle multiple responsibilities and tasks simultaneously, leading to a sense of being overwhelmed and unable to focus effectively. This can contribute to higher levels of psychological stress for mothers in particular, impacting their overall well-being. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the research specifically links frequent multitasking, not making family meals, working outside the home, or cosleeping with infants, to greater psychological stress among mothers.