In the context of psychology, what is the definition of a prototype as used in AP Psychology?

• A. A prototype is a set of rules that define the necessary and sufficient features of a concept.
• B. A prototype is a mental shortcut that allows people to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
• C. A prototype is the best or most typical example of a category that helps people classify new objects or ideas.
• D. A prototype is a learned response to a previously neutral stimulus.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that in AP Psychology, the term 'prototype' relates to how we categorize and recognize objects or ideas in our minds.
2. Step 2: Recognize that a prototype is not about strict rules or definitions, but rather about the most typical or representative example of a category.
3. Step 3: Know that prototypes help us quickly classify new objects or ideas by comparing them to this mental 'best example' or standard.
4. Step 4: Differentiate prototypes from other concepts such as 'sets of rules' (which define concepts more rigidly), 'mental shortcuts' (heuristics), or 'learned responses' (classical conditioning).
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct definition of a prototype in psychology is the best or most typical example of a category that aids in classification and understanding.