Psychology 2301 Exam 1 Related

Review Psychology 2301 Exam 1 related questions and content

If having a gene for Parkinson's disease guarantees that Parkinson's disease will develop, the gene is a ________.

  • A. risk factor
  • B. necessary cause
  • C. sufficient cause
  • D. contributory cause
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: necessary cause. A necessary cause is an essential factor for the disorder to occur. In this scenario, if having a gene for Parkinson's disease guarantees the development of the disease, then the gene is a necessary cause. Choice A, 'risk factor,' implies an increased likelihood of developing the disease but does not indicate certainty. Choice C, 'sufficient cause,' indicates that the gene alone can bring about the disease, which is not necessarily true in this context. Choice D, 'contributory cause,' suggests that the gene plays a part in causing the disease but is not essential for its development.