Human Growth and Development Exam 1

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The harm done by teratogens depends on the age at the time of exposure. This means that the effects may vary depending on the developmental stage of the fetus when exposed to the teratogen. Teratogens can have different impacts at different stages of pregnancy, leading to a range of potential outcomes in terms of physical and/or cognitive development. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the harm caused by teratogens is not straightforward, may not be apparent at birth, and can go beyond physical damage, affecting cognitive development as well.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The lifespan perspective on human development assumes that development is multidimensional and multidirectional. This means that development occurs in various domains (such as physical, cognitive, and psychosocial) and can involve gains and losses as individuals age. This perspective recognizes that human development is complex and dynamic, involving various factors and pathways over the course of a person's life. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because human development is not static and stable (A), can involve both continuous and discontinuous changes (C), and is influenced by a combination of heredity and environment rather than solely by heredity (D).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A baby born between the seventh and eighth months of pregnancy is considered premature. Premature babies are born before they are fully developed and may need assistance with breathing, including oxygen. They are at a higher risk for complications compared to full-term babies. Choice A is incorrect because premature babies are at a higher risk for health issues compared to full-term babies. Choice C is incorrect as modern medical advancements have significantly increased the survival rate of premature babies. Choice D is incorrect as being small-for-date does not solely depend on the gestational age at birth.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Dr. Anderson should use an experimental design to determine the cause-and-effect relationship between domestic violence and anger in children. In an experimental design, the researcher manipulates the independent variable (in this case, exposure to domestic violence) to observe its effect on the dependent variable (anger in children). This design allows for the establishment of a cause-and-effect relationship by controlling for other variables that may influence the outcomes. Observational design (Choice B) involves observing subjects in their natural environment without interference, correlational design (Choice C) examines the relationship between variables without manipulating them, and structured design (Choice A) typically refers to a study with predetermined procedures and data collection methods, which may not be suitable for establishing cause-and-effect relationships.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Research on newborn taste preferences has found that not until around 4 months of age do babies start to show a preference for a salty taste over plain water. This indicates that newborns do have some ability to distinguish tastes, contrary to the statement in option A. The statement in option C that newborns prefer the taste of formula to breast milk is not supported by research on newborn taste preferences. Option D, stating that babies relax their facial muscles in response to sour tastes, is also not a supported statement regarding newborn taste preferences.