What is the goal of applied behavior analysis?
- A. outline changes in temperament over the lifespan
- B. eliminate undesirable behaviors and increase desirable responses
- C. examine how we think about ourselves and other people
- D. synthesize information from various sources into a detailed picture of a person's personality
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "eliminate undesirable behaviors and increase desirable responses." Applied behavior analysis aims to modify behavior by focusing on eliminating unwanted behaviors and reinforcing desirable ones. It does not primarily deal with changes in temperament (choice A), self-perception (choice C), or personality traits (choice D). The approach involves techniques such as reinforcement to target specific behaviors, rather than broader cognitive processes or personality characteristics.
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According to operant conditioning theory, __________.
- A. the frequency of a behavior can be increased through punishment, such as disapproval
- B. normal development must be understood in relation to each culture's life situation
- C. the id develops as parents insist that children conform to the values of society
- D. the frequency of a behavior can be increased by following it with a wide variety of reinforcers
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.
Unlike adults, newborn babies __________.
- A. have a limited sense of smell
- B. see nearby objects most clearly
- C. prefer unfamiliar voices to familiar ones
- D. see unclearly across a wide range of distances
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Unlike adults, newborn babies see nearby objects most clearly. This is due to the fact that newborns have a limited ability to focus their eyes on objects that are farther away. Their visual acuity is not fully developed at birth, leading to clearer vision of objects situated at a close distance. Choice A is incorrect because newborn babies have a well-developed sense of smell. Choice C is incorrect as newborns typically show a preference for familiar voices, such as their mother's voice. Choice D is incorrect as newborns do not see unclearly across a wide range of distances; rather, their vision is clearer for nearby objects.
When trying to soothe a crying baby, what technique do Western parents typically attempt first?
- A. Massaging the baby's body
- B. Offering a pacifier and a receiving blanket
- C. Playing recorded womb sounds or sounds of nature
- D. Lifting the baby to the shoulder and rocking or walking
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: When Western parents aim to soothe a crying baby, the technique they usually try first is lifting the baby to the shoulder and rocking or walking. This method is effective because the motion and closeness provided by rocking or walking can help calm the baby and offer comfort. Choice A is incorrect as massaging the baby's body is not typically the first technique used. Choice B is incorrect as offering a pacifier and a receiving blanket may be tried after lifting the baby to the shoulder. Choice C is also incorrect as playing recorded sounds is usually not the initial technique attempted.
In a structured observation, each participant has an equal opportunity to display the behavior of interest because the researcher designs a specific set of conditions or tasks for all participants to engage in, providing a standardized environment for observation.
- A. clinical interview
- B. naturalistic observation
- C. structured observation
- D. case study
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In a structured observation, each participant has an equal opportunity to display the behavior of interest because the researcher designs a specific set of conditions or tasks for all participants to engage in, providing a standardized environment for observation. This allows for fair and equitable observations across all participants, ensuring that each individual has the same opportunities to exhibit the behavior being studied.
Choice A, clinical interview, typically involves a one-on-one interaction between a researcher and a participant focusing on collecting information through questions and answers, not providing equal opportunities for behavior display.
Choice B, naturalistic observation, involves observing individuals in their natural environment without intervention or manipulation of conditions, which may not always ensure equal opportunities for behavior display.
Choice D, case study, focuses on in-depth analysis of a single individual or a small group, providing detailed information but not necessarily ensuring equal opportunities for behavior display among participants.
A baby born between the seventh and eighth months of pregnancy __________.
- A. is just as healthy as a full-term baby
- B. usually needs oxygen assistance to breathe
- C. only has about a 10 percent survival rate
- D. is considered small-for-date
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.