Exam 4 Psychology

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B.F. Skinner. Skinner proposed the theory of operant conditioning, where behavior is shaped by its consequences. Positive outcomes increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while neutral or negative outcomes decrease it. Sigmund Freud (choice A) is known for his psychoanalytic theory, Carl Rogers (choice C) for person-centered therapy, and Abraham Maslow (choice D) for the hierarchy of needs.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Dr. Smythe's belief that understanding the purpose of taste in survival is more critical than focusing on the elementary components aligns with the functionalist approach to psychology. Functionalism emphasizes understanding the purpose or function of mental processes and behavior, rather than just analyzing their individual components. This approach looks at how mental processes help individuals adapt to their environment and survive. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not prioritize understanding the purpose of mental processes and behavior in the context of survival.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Wilhelm Wundt is the correct answer as he is credited with establishing psychology as a distinct scientific field. Wundt founded the first laboratory dedicated to experimental psychology in 1879, which marked the beginning of psychology as a separate discipline. While the other individuals mentioned in the choices have made significant contributions to the field of psychology, Wilhelm Wundt is specifically known for his pioneering work in establishing psychology as a unique and independent discipline.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Secondary circular reactions. Secondary circular reactions are repeated actions that infants engage in to trigger a response from the environment, such as the baby cooing to make the mom smile. This behavior is characterized by a focus on the external environment and the repetition of actions to achieve a desired response. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Reflexes (choice A) are automatic, involuntary responses to a stimulus, while primary circular reactions (choice B) involve the repetition of actions primarily for the infant's own enjoyment rather than to elicit a response from the environment. Tertiary circular reactions (choice D) refer to the experimentation with new behaviors and variations in the way the infant interacts with the environment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Behaviorists argue that psychology should focus on observable behavior that can be studied objectively. Choice A is incorrect because behaviorists do not typically focus on conscious experiences, as they are not directly observable. Choice B is incorrect because behaviorists emphasize that behavior can be understood without delving into internal motives. Choice C is incorrect as behaviorists do not exclusively explain behavior through an individual's interpretation of experience; they focus on observable actions and reactions.