Human Growth and Development Exam 1

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Dilation and effacement of the cervix. This stage can last for hours, especially for first-time mothers, as the cervix needs to dilate and efface to allow for the baby's passage through the birth canal. Once the cervix is fully dilated and effaced, the woman can begin pushing during the second stage of labor to deliver the baby. The delivery of the baby itself is usually a shorter process compared to the time taken for the cervix to dilate and efface. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they represent other stages within the labor process that come after the dilation and effacement of the cervix.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Lily weighed 8 pounds and was 21 inches long at birth. Being both heavier and longer than average babies typically are at birth, Lily would be considered heavier and longer compared to the average baby. This makes choice B, 'heavier and longer,' the correct answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because Lily was not shorter or lighter than the average baby at birth.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: According to operant conditioning theory, the frequency of a behavior can be increased by following it with a wide variety of reinforcers. In operant conditioning, behaviors are shaped through reinforcement, which can be positive (rewarding) or negative (removal of something unpleasant). By providing reinforcement following a behavior, the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future is increased. This supports the notion that the frequency of a behavior can be increased by using reinforcers in operant conditioning. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because operant conditioning focuses on the relationship between behavior and its consequences through reinforcement (positive or negative) to increase the likelihood of the behavior recurring, rather than punishment, cultural influences, or the development of the id based on societal values.

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: 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.