AP Psychology Unit 1 Practice Test

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AP Psychology Unit 1 Practice Test - Quiz

Hey, are you looking for the practice test questions and answers based on AP Psychology unit 1? Then, you have arrived at the right place, as we have this quiz to help you out for the same. Step into the fascinating realm of the mind with the "AP Psychology Unit 1 Practice Test." It consists of a questionnaire mainly related to psychology's history and approaches. AP Psychology is an introductory college-level psychology exam. Do you wish to do the same? Take the quiz below and check how well your preparation level is going on.
Designed to align with the Read moreCollege Board's Advanced Placement Psychology curriculum, this quiz invites you on a journey through the foundational concepts of psychology. Whether you're a high school student preparing for the AP exam or a curious mind delving into the intricacies of human behavior, this practice test is your key to mastering Unit 1.
Immerse yourself in the world of psychological inquiry and discover the connections between theories and real-world applications. As you progress through the quiz, unravel the complexities of psychological concepts, honing your analytical skills and gaining a deeper appreciation for the science of the mind. Whether you're aiming for that coveted 5 on the AP exam or simply eager to expand your understanding of psychology, this practice test is your stepping stone. Embrace the challenge, test your cognitive prowess, and embark on a learning adventure that transcends textbooks. We wish you all the very best!


AP Psychology Questions and Answers

  • 1. 

    _______________ is the view that knowledge comes from experience and that science should rely on observation and experimentation.

    • A.

      Empiricism

    • B.

      Structuralism

    • C.

      Functionalism

    • D.

      Experimental psychology

    • E.

      Behaviorism

    Correct Answer
    A. Empiricism
    Explanation
    Empiricism is the view that knowledge comes from experience and that science should rely on observation and experimentation. This means that knowledge is gained through sensory perceptions and evidence-based observations rather than through innate ideas or reasoning alone. Empiricists believe that all knowledge is derived from sensory experiences and that scientific theories and hypotheses should be tested and validated through observation and experimentation. Empiricism emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence and rejects the notion of innate knowledge or ideas.

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  • 2. 

    Introduced by Edward Bradford Titchener, ____________ is the early school of psychology that used self-reflection (introspection) to examine the ____________ elements of the human mind.

    • A.

      Structuralism

    • B.

      Experimental psychology

    • C.

      Psychology

    • D.

      Cognitive neuroscience

    • E.

      Biological psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Structuralism
    Explanation
    Structuralism is the early school of psychology that used self-reflection (introspection) to examine the structural elements of the human mind. This approach focused on analyzing the basic components of consciousness and how they combine to form complex mental processes. Edward Bradford Titchener was a key figure in the development of structuralism, which aimed to uncover the underlying structure of the mind through introspective observations.

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  • 3. 

    ____________ is the study of thinking and behavior using the _____________  method.

    • A.

      Experimental psychology, Experimental

    • B.

      Psychiatry, Psychic

    • C.

      Clinical psychology, Clinical

    • D.

      Human factors psychology

    • E.

      Developmental psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Experimental psychology, Experimental
    Explanation
    Experimental psychology is the study of thinking and behavior using the experimental method. This involves conducting controlled experiments to observe and measure behavior and mental processes. Experimental psychologists use scientific methods to gather data and draw conclusions about human behavior and cognition. They design experiments, manipulate variables, and collect and analyze data to understand how different factors influence behavior. This approach allows for the systematic study of psychological phenomena and the development of theories and principles that can be applied in various contexts.

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  • 4. 

    Introduced by William James, ________________ is the early school of psychology that emphasized how behavior and mental processes enable the organism to adapt, survive, and flourish.

    • A.

      Functionalism

    • B.

      Psychometrics

    • C.

      Empiricism

    • D.

      Basic research

    • E.

      Applied research

    Correct Answer
    A. Functionalism
    Explanation
    Functionalism is the correct answer because it is the early school of psychology that focuses on how behavior and mental processes help individuals adapt, survive, and thrive. This theory was introduced by William James and it emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose or function of behavior and mental processes in the context of an individual's environment. Functionalism seeks to explain why certain behaviors and mental processes have evolved and how they contribute to an individual's overall well-being and success in their environment.

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  • 5. 

    _________________ is the view that psychology should focus only on the scientific study of observable behaviors without reference to mental processes.

    • A.

      Behaviorism

    • B.

      Structuralism

    • C.

      Humanistic psychology

    • D.

      Levels of analysis

    • E.

      Psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Behaviorism
    Explanation
    Behaviorism is the correct answer because it is a psychological perspective that emphasizes the study of observable behaviors rather than mental processes. Behaviorists believe that behavior can be explained and predicted by studying the environmental stimuli and the responses they elicit. This approach rejects the study of internal mental states or subjective experiences and instead focuses on studying behavior in a scientific and objective manner.

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  • 6. 

    _______________ is the historically significant perspective of psychology that emphasized the growth potential of healthy people. 

    • A.

      Humanistic psychology

    • B.

      Behaviorism

    • C.

      Natural selection

    • D.

      Levels of analysis

    • E.

      SQ3R

    Correct Answer
    A. Humanistic psychology
    Explanation
    Humanistic psychology is the historically significant perspective of psychology that emphasized the growth potential of healthy people. This perspective focuses on individual's self-actualization and personal growth, and it emphasizes the importance of understanding subjective experiences and the unique qualities of each individual. Humanistic psychology believes that individuals have the ability to make choices and control their own behavior, and it emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and self-awareness in achieving personal growth and fulfillment.

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  • 7. 

    ______________ is the study of how brain activity is linked with thought processes such as memory and perception.

    • A.

      Cognitive neuroscience

    • B.

      Cognitive psychology

    • C.

      Clinical psychology

    • D.

      Basic research

    • E.

      Psychodynamic psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Cognitive neuroscience
    Explanation
    Cognitive neuroscience is the study of how brain activity is linked with thought processes such as memory and perception. It combines principles from cognitive psychology and neuroscience to understand how the brain functions during cognitive processes. This field focuses on using advanced imaging techniques to observe brain activity and identify the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive functions. By studying the relationship between brain activity and cognitive processes, cognitive neuroscience aims to provide insights into the nature of human cognition and how it is influenced by brain function.

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  • 8. 

    ______________ uses principles of natural selection to study thinking and behavior. 

    • A.

      Evolutionary psychology

    • B.

      Industrial-organizational psychology

    • C.

      Industrial-organizational psychology

    • D.

      Behavioral psychology

    • E.

      Psychodynamic psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Evolutionary psychology
    Explanation
    Evolutionary psychology uses principles of natural selection to study thinking and behavior. It explores how certain cognitive and behavioral traits have evolved over time to enhance an individual's chances of survival and reproduction. This field of psychology focuses on understanding how evolutionary processes have shaped human psychology and behavior, including topics such as mate selection, aggression, and decision-making. By examining how certain traits and behaviors have adapted over generations, evolutionary psychology provides insights into the underlying evolutionary mechanisms that influence human cognition and behavior.

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  • 9. 

    _____________ is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. 

    • A.

      Psychology

    • B.

      The nature-nurture issue

    • C.

      Cognitive psychology

    • D.

      Biological psychology

    • E.

      Structuralism

    Correct Answer
    A. Psychology
    Explanation
    Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. It encompasses the examination of various aspects of human behavior, including thoughts, emotions, motivations, and actions. Through empirical research and observation, psychologists aim to understand and explain human behavior and mental processes. They study various factors that influence behavior, such as genetics, environment, cognition, and biology. Psychology is a broad field that encompasses various subfields, including cognitive psychology, biological psychology, and structuralism, which focus on different aspects of human behavior and mental processes.

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  • 10. 

    ____________ is the principle that those traits of a species that contribute to reproduction and survival are most likely to be passed on to succeeding generations.

    • A.

      Natural Selection

    • B.

      Cognitive neuroscience

    • C.

      Experimental psychology

    • D.

      Educational psychology

    • E.

      Social-cultural psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Natural Selection
    Explanation
    Natural selection is the process by which certain traits within a species become more common over generations if they increase an individual's chances of surviving and reproducing. Traits that provide an advantage in a particular environment or help an organism better adapt to its surroundings are more likely to be passed on to offspring. As a result, over time, the population becomes better suited to its environment as advantageous traits accumulate through successive generations.

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  • 11. 

    ___________ is the principle that those traits of a species that contribute to reproduction and survival are most likely to be passed on to succeeding generations. 

    • A.

      Natural selection

    • B.

      Experimental psychology

    • C.

      Psychology

    • D.

      Psychometrics

    • E.

      Personality psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Natural selection
    Explanation
    Natural selection is the principle that states that traits of a species that are beneficial for reproduction and survival are more likely to be passed on to future generations. This process leads to the gradual evolution of species over time, as individuals with advantageous traits have a higher chance of surviving and reproducing. This principle was proposed by Charles Darwin and is a fundamental concept in the field of biology.

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  • 12. 

    Psychologists analyze behavior and mental processes from differing complementary views, or _____________.

    • A.

      Levels of analysis

    • B.

      Behaviorism

    • C.

      The biopsychosocial approach

    • D.

      The industrial-organizational psychology

    • E.

      Functionalism

    Correct Answer
    A. Levels of analysis
    Explanation
    Psychologists analyze behavior and mental processes from differing complementary views, or levels of analysis. This means that they examine behavior and mental processes from different perspectives or levels, such as biological, psychological, and social. By considering these different levels, psychologists are able to gain a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental processes.

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  • 13. 

    The ___________________ is an integrated perspective that focuses on biological, psychological, and social-cultural levels of analysis for a given behavior or mental process.

    • A.

      Biopsychosocial approach

    • B.

      Nature-nurture issue

    • C.

      Levels of analysis

    • D.

      Behavioral approach

    • E.

      Intuitive understanding

    Correct Answer
    A. Biopsychosocial approach
    Explanation
    The biopsychosocial approach is an integrated perspective that considers the biological, psychological, and social-cultural factors that contribute to a behavior or mental process. It recognizes that these different levels of analysis interact and influence each other, and that a comprehensive understanding of behavior or mental processes requires considering all three factors. This approach emphasizes the importance of considering the biological, psychological, and social-cultural aspects of a person's life when studying behavior or mental processes.

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  • 14. 

    _______________ studies the links between biological and psychological processes.

    • A.

      Biological psychology

    • B.

      Evolutionary psychology

    • C.

      Cognitive psychology

    • D.

      Social-cultural psychology

    • E.

      Personality psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Biological psychology
    Explanation
    Biological psychology studies the links between biological and psychological processes. It explores how biological factors, such as genetics, brain structure, and neurotransmitters, influence behavior and mental processes. This field of psychology aims to understand how the brain and nervous system impact emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. By examining the biological basis of psychological phenomena, researchers in biological psychology seek to gain insights into mental illnesses, cognitive functioning, and overall human behavior.

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  • 15. 

    ________________  psychology focuses on principles of learning in the scientific study of observable behavior. 

    • A.

      Behavioral

    • B.

      Psychodynamic

    • C.

      Cognitive

    • D.

      Information acquisition

    • E.

      Clinical

    Correct Answer
    A. Behavioral
    Explanation
    Behavioral psychology focuses on the scientific study of observable behavior and principles of learning. This approach emphasizes the importance of studying behavior that can be directly observed and measured, rather than focusing on internal mental processes. It seeks to understand how behavior is learned and shaped through the processes of conditioning, reinforcement, and punishment. Behavioral psychology also emphasizes the role of the environment in influencing behavior and believes that behavior can be modified through interventions and techniques based on these principles.

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  • 16. 

    _____________ studies how uncon­scious drives and conflicts influence behavior and thinking. 

    • A.

      Psychodynamic psychology

    • B.

      The biopsychosocial approach

    • C.

      Experimental psychology

    • D.

      Humanistic psychology

    • E.

      Psychometrics

    Correct Answer
    A. Psychodynamic psychology
    Explanation
    Psychodynamic psychology studies how unconscious drives and conflicts influence behavior and thinking. It focuses on the role of the unconscious mind and childhood experiences in shaping personality and behavior. This approach was developed by Sigmund Freud and emphasizes the importance of understanding the unconscious motivations and conflicts that influence human behavior. Psychodynamic psychology also explores concepts such as defense mechanisms, psychosexual development, and the role of the unconscious in dreams and slips of the tongue.

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  • 17. 

    ___________ is a study method consisting of five steps: survey, question, read, rehearse, and review.

    • A.

      SQ3R

    • B.

      Counseling psychology

    • C.

      TINSTAFFL

    • D.

      AVID

    • E.

      Cornell Notes

    Correct Answer
    A. SQ3R
    Explanation
    SQ3R is a study method that involves five steps: survey, question, read, rehearse, and review. This method is designed to help students effectively comprehend and retain information from their readings. By surveying the material, generating questions, actively reading, rehearsing the information, and reviewing it regularly, students can enhance their understanding and memory of the content. SQ3R is a widely recognized and recommended study technique for academic success.

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  • 18. 

    ________________ is the branch of medicine concerned with the physical diagnosis and treatment of psy­chological disorders.

    • A.

      Psychiatry

    • B.

      Psychology

    • C.

      Sociology

    • D.

      Anthropology

    • E.

      PhD

    Correct Answer
    A. Psychiatry
    Explanation
    Psychiatry is the correct answer because it is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders. It focuses on understanding and addressing psychological disorders through medical interventions such as medication and therapy. Psychiatry differs from psychology, sociology, and anthropology, as it specifically involves medical training and the use of medication in the treatment of mental health conditions. A PhD, on the other hand, refers to a doctorate degree and is not directly related to the physical diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders.

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  • 19. 

    _______________ is the branch of psychology concerned with the study, assessment, and treat­ment of people with psychological disorders.  

    • A.

      Clinical psychology

    • B.

      Family psychology

    • C.

      State mandated psychology

    • D.

      Developmental psychology

    • E.

      Crayfield psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Clinical psychology
    Explanation
    Clinical psychology is the branch of psychology that focuses on the study, assessment, and treatment of individuals with psychological disorders. It involves the application of psychological principles and techniques to understand and improve mental health and well-being. Clinical psychologists work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, providing therapy, conducting assessments, and developing treatment plans. They aim to alleviate psychological distress and promote mental health through evidence-based practices and interventions.

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  • 20. 

    ________________ is the branch of psychol­ogy that helps people cope with challenges in their daily lives, 

    • A.

      Counseling psychology

    • B.

      Family psychology

    • C.

      Crisis psychology

    • D.

      Intervention psychology

    • E.

      Semantic psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Counseling psychology
    Explanation
    Counseling psychology is the branch of psychology that helps people cope with challenges in their daily lives. This field focuses on providing therapeutic support and guidance to individuals dealing with various personal, emotional, and mental health issues. Counseling psychologists work with clients to explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and assist them in developing effective coping strategies and problem-solving skills. They may address a wide range of concerns, including relationship issues, stress management, career development, and personal growth. Overall, counseling psychology aims to improve clients' well-being and enhance their ability to navigate life's challenges.

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  • 21. 

    ____________ is the study of how humans and machines interacts.

    • A.

      Human factors psychology

    • B.

      Matrix psychology

    • C.

      Transformer psychology

    • D.

      Lego psychology

    • E.

      Interactive psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Human factors psychology
    Explanation
    Human factors psychology is the correct answer because it is the study of how humans and machines interact. This field focuses on understanding how people interact with technology and designing systems that are user-friendly and efficient. It examines factors such as human cognition, perception, and behavior to optimize the design and use of machines, equipment, and interfaces.

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  • 22. 

    _______________ applies psychological concepts to optimizing human behavior in the workplace.

    • A.

      Industrial-organizational psychology

    • B.

      Workplace psychology

    • C.

      Restorative psychology

    • D.

      9 to 5 psychology

    • E.

      Water Cooler psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Industrial-organizational psychology
    Explanation
    Industrial-organizational psychology applies psychological concepts to optimizing human behavior in the workplace. This field focuses on improving productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall organizational effectiveness. It involves studying various aspects such as employee selection, training and development, performance management, motivation, and work-life balance. Industrial-organizational psychologists use their knowledge to address issues related to job design, leadership, teamwork, and organizational culture. They aim to create a positive work environment that enhances employee well-being and contributes to the success of the organization.

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  • 23. 

    _____________ is scientific study that aims to solve practical problems.

    • A.

      Applied research

    • B.

      Applied optics

    • C.

      Critical Thinking

    • D.

      CAD

    • E.

      Algorithmic research

    Correct Answer
    A. Applied research
    Explanation
    Applied research is the correct answer because it refers to scientific study that is conducted with the intention of solving practical problems. Unlike theoretical research, which focuses on expanding knowledge and understanding, applied research aims to find solutions and practical applications for real-world issues. It involves using scientific methods and principles to address specific problems and generate useful outcomes that can be implemented in various fields such as medicine, technology, and engineering.

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  • 24. 

    ____________ is the study of a person's characteristic pattern of thinking, feeling, and acting.

    • A.

      Personality psychology

    • B.

      Cognitive psychology

    • C.

      Interpretive psychology

    • D.

      Meme psychology

    • E.

      Disordered psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Personality psychology
    Explanation
    Personality psychology is the study of a person's characteristic pattern of thinking, feeling, and acting. It focuses on understanding individual differences in personality traits and how they influence behavior. This field explores various aspects of personality such as traits, emotions, motivations, and behaviors, aiming to provide insights into why individuals behave the way they do. By studying personality psychology, researchers and practitioners can gain a deeper understanding of human behavior and develop interventions to improve mental health and well-being.

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  • 25. 

    ______________ is pure science that aims to in­crease psychology's scientific knowledge base rather than to solve practical problems.

    • A.

      Basic research

    • B.

      Advanced research

    • C.

      Prior research

    • D.

      Essential research

    • E.

      Preliminary research

    Correct Answer
    A. Basic research
    Explanation
    Basic research is a type of pure science that focuses on expanding psychology's scientific knowledge base rather than addressing practical problems. It involves conducting experiments and studies to gain a deeper understanding of fundamental principles and theories in psychology. This research is often conducted in controlled laboratory settings and aims to contribute to the overall body of knowledge in the field. Advanced research, prior research, essential research, and preliminary research are not accurate descriptions for this type of scientific inquiry.

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  • 26. 

    _____________ is the scientific study of the mea­surement of human abilities, attitudes, and traits.

    • A.

      Psychometrics

    • B.

      Intelligence Quotient

    • C.

      Proficiency Assessment

    • D.

      Interpretive Psychology

    • E.

      Inquiry Psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Psychometrics
    Explanation
    Psychometrics is the scientific study of the measurement of human abilities, attitudes, and traits. It involves the development and application of psychological tests and assessments to measure various aspects of human behavior and characteristics. Psychometricians use statistical methods to analyze the data collected from these tests and assessments to determine the reliability and validity of the measurements. This field plays a crucial role in fields such as education, psychology, and employment, as it helps in understanding and evaluating human attributes and predicting future behavior.

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  • 27. 

    ________________ is the study of how situations and culture influence thinking and behavior.

    • A.

      Social-cultural psychology

    • B.

      Biological psychology

    • C.

      Sociological psychology

    • D.

      Instrumental psychology

    • E.

      Ethnic psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Social-cultural psychology
    Explanation
    Social-cultural psychology is the study of how situations and culture influence thinking and behavior. This field focuses on understanding how social and cultural factors shape individual behavior, attitudes, and beliefs. It examines how societal norms, values, and expectations impact cognitive processes, emotions, and social interactions. By studying social-cultural psychology, researchers gain insights into how individuals from different cultures and backgrounds perceive the world, make decisions, and interact with others. This knowledge is crucial for understanding human behavior in diverse contexts and for developing interventions that promote positive social change.

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  • 28. 

    ____________ is the scientific study of thinking, knowing, remembering, and communi­cating,

    • A.

      Cognitive psychology

    • B.

      Behavioral psychology

    • C.

      Matriculation psychology

    • D.

      Articulation psychology

    • E.

      ASL psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Cognitive psychology
    Explanation
    Cognitive psychology is the scientific study of thinking, knowing, remembering, and communicating. It focuses on understanding how people perceive, process, and store information, as well as how they use that information to make decisions and solve problems. This field examines various cognitive processes such as attention, memory, language, problem-solving, and decision-making. By studying cognitive psychology, researchers can gain insights into how the mind works and develop strategies to enhance cognitive functioning and improve learning and problem-solving abilities.

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  • Mar 28, 2024
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