Psychology 2301 Exam 1

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Common methods used to study genetic influences on behavior include twin studies, adoption studies, and gene mapping. Twin studies help to compare the similarities between identical and fraternal twins to estimate the heritability of a trait. Adoption studies look at the similarities between adopted children and their biological and adoptive parents to determine genetic influences. Gene mapping involves identifying specific genes associated with certain behaviors. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because genetic influences on behavior are not solely studied through twin studies or family history, and while the understanding of genetic influences may vary, there are established methods to study them.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cardiovascular reactivity. Persistent discrimination can have negative impacts on an individual's physical health, leading to increased cardiovascular reactivity. This can manifest as higher blood pressure, heart rate, and overall stress on the cardiovascular system. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because persistent discrimination typically does not result in increased happiness, greater intelligence and wisdom, or increased consciousness. Instead, it often leads to detrimental effects on mental and physical health.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Genetic predispositions are indeed a factor in the development of mental disorders, but they are not the sole determining factor. While genetics can predispose individuals to certain conditions, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and life experiences also play a significant role. Choice A is incorrect because mental disorders are influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Choice C is incorrect as genetic predispositions do have an impact on mental health. Choice D is incorrect as genetic predispositions do not guarantee the development of mental disorders, as other factors also contribute to their onset.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Freud's psychosexual stage that occurs between the ages of 3 and 5, including the Oedipal period, is the phallic stage. During this stage, children experience the Oedipus or Electra complex, where they develop unconscious sexual desires for the opposite-sex parent and see the same-sex parent as a rival. The genital stage (Choice A) is the final stage where mature sexual interests emerge, oral (Choice B) and anal stages precede the phallic stage, and latency (Choice D) is a stage following the phallic stage characterized by a focus on developing social and cognitive skills.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Permissive parenting is associated with positive developmental outcomes because it involves warmth and a lack of strict control. Authoritarian parenting, as mentioned in choice A, is characterized by strict rules and harsh discipline, which may not lead to the best developmental outcomes. Neglectful parenting, as in choice C, involves a lack of responsiveness and support, which can have detrimental effects on a child's development. Choice D is incorrect because different parenting styles can have varying impacts on child development.