Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the myelin sheath in a neuron?

Accepted Answer

It increases the speed of electrical impulses along the axon.

Question 2

During synaptic transmission, which process occurs immediately after an action potential reaches the axon terminal?

Accepted Answer

Neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic cleft.

Question 3

Which gland is primarily responsible for regulating metabolism through hormone secretion?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid gland

Question 4

A researcher compares the IQ scores of identical twins raised apart and fraternal twins raised together. What is the main purpose of this twin study design?

Accepted Answer

To separate genetic influences from environmental influences on intelligence.

Question 5

Which of the following best illustrates gene expression?

Accepted Answer

A gene is activated by environmental stress, leading to increased production of a specific protein.

Question 6

According to arousal theory, which of the following scenarios best demonstrates optimal arousal?

Accepted Answer

An athlete performs best when slightly nervous but not overwhelmed.

Question 7

Drive reduction theory suggests that motivation arises from:

Accepted Answer

The need to reduce internal physiological tension caused by unmet biological needs.

Question 8

A person attributes their rapid heartbeat during a job interview to excitement rather than anxiety. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Emotional attribution/appraisal.

Question 9

Which of the following is a projective measure of personality?

Accepted Answer

Rorschach Inkblot Test

Question 10

According to Carl Rogers’s self-theory, which of the following is essential for healthy personality development?

Accepted Answer

Unconditional positive regard from others

Question 11

In social learning theory, what is meant by 'reinforcement value'?

Accepted Answer

The subjective value an individual places on a potential outcome

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the role of the ego in Freud’s psychoanalytic theory?

Accepted Answer

It mediates between the id, superego, and reality.

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a theoretical criterion for defining a psychological disorder?

Accepted Answer

Cultural approval

Question 14

A person develops a fear of dogs after being bitten and then avoids parks where dogs are present. Which learning processes are involved in the development and maintenance of this anxiety disorder?

Accepted Answer

Classical conditioning for acquisition; operant conditioning for maintenance

Question 15

According to the helplessness theory of depression, which explanatory style increases vulnerability to depression?

Accepted Answer

Pessimistic explanatory style

Question 16

The dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia suggests that:

Accepted Answer

Schizophrenia is associated with overactivity of dopamine pathways in the brain.

Question 17

The stress-vulnerability model of psychological disorders proposes that:

Accepted Answer

Environmental stress interacts with individual vulnerability to trigger disorders.

Question 18

Which of the following is a psychoanalytic technique used to uncover unconscious conflicts?

Accepted Answer

Free association

Question 19

Which quality is considered essential for a client-centered therapist according to Carl Rogers?

Accepted Answer

Unconditional positive regard

Question 20

Exposure therapy for specific phobia is most effective because it:

Accepted Answer

Gradually reduces fear through repeated contact with the feared object or situation.

Step-by-Step Guidance for College Psychology Short-Answer Topics

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