Question 1

Which of the following best describes the 'continuity' perspective in developmental psychology?

Accepted Answer

Development is smooth and gradual, with quantitative changes building on earlier experiences.

Question 2

According to John B. Watson, which statement best reflects the nurture perspective?

Accepted Answer

Development is a result of learned experiences and environmental influences.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of positive punishment?

Accepted Answer

Giving a child extra chores after they break a rule.

Question 4

In Pavlov's classical conditioning experiment, what is the conditioned stimulus (CS)?

Accepted Answer

The bell

Question 5

Which theorist is most closely associated with the concept of 'tabula rasa' or blank slate?

Accepted Answer

John Locke

Question 6

A child who learns to fear dogs after being bitten by one is demonstrating which type of learning?

Accepted Answer

Classical conditioning

Question 7

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'zone of proximal development' (ZPD) as proposed by Vygotsky?

Accepted Answer

A child learning to ride a bike with guidance from a parent.

Question 8

Which of the following is a criticism of Freud's psychosexual theory of development?

Accepted Answer

Its concepts are difficult to test scientifically and operationalize.

Question 9

According to Piaget, which stage is characterized by the development of object permanence?

Accepted Answer

Sensorimotor stage

Question 10

Which of the following best describes a primary reinforcer?

Accepted Answer

A naturally reinforcing stimulus, such as food.

Question 11

A teacher gives students extra recess time for completing their homework. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Positive reinforcement

Question 12

Which of the following statements best reflects the 'modern' view of developmental psychology?

Accepted Answer

Some aspects of development are continuous, while others occur in stage-like patterns.

Question 13

Which of the following is an example of intrinsic reinforcement?

Accepted Answer

Enjoying the act of painting because it is fun.

Question 14

According to Erikson, which psychosocial stage is associated with adolescence?

Accepted Answer

Identity vs. Role Confusion

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the 'stability versus change' issue in developmental psychology?

Accepted Answer

Whether individual characteristics remain consistent or change across the lifespan.

Question 16

A child who is given a timeout (removal of playtime) for misbehaving is experiencing which type of operant conditioning?

Accepted Answer

Negative punishment

Question 17

Which of the following theorists emphasized the role of culture and social interaction in cognitive development?

Accepted Answer

Lev Vygotsky

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world example of delayed reinforcement?

Accepted Answer

Receiving a paycheck at the end of the month for work done throughout the month.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the preformationist view?

Accepted Answer

A newly fertilized egg is a fully formed human with all faculties.

Question 20

Which of the following is a key criticism of Piaget's theory of cognitive development?

Accepted Answer

It underestimates children's abilities and may be too rigid in its stage definitions.

Developmental Theories and Theorists: Foundations of Lifespan Psychology

Study Guide - Practice Questions