Mastering Adolescent Psychology: A Comprehensive Quiz for Psych 240

Adolescence as a concept is not based on biological factors alone, but rather on societal norms and expectations.

Primary sex characteristics are body parts directly related to reproduction, such as the reproductive organs. This is distinct from secondary sex characteristics, which are physical attributes that develop during puberty, and emotional characteristics related to gender identity.

During adolescence, the brain undergoes growth and pruning of gray matter, leading to increased efficiency and specialization in brain function.

Piaget's theory of cognitive development states that adolescents transition into the formal operations stage, typically starting around age 12 and continuing into adulthood. This stage is characterized by abstract thinking, logical reasoning, and hypothetical problem-solving.

The term 'personal fable' refers to the belief that one's own feelings and experiences are unique and exceptional. This can lead to behaviors like Todd's where he believes he is an exception to the dangers of drinking and driving, while judging others for the same behavior.

Carol Gilligan believed that Kohlberg's theory of moral development was biased towards values that are traditionally more important to males, dismissing the values that are more commonly associated with females. She argued for an alternative approach that emphasizes the importance of relationships and care in moral reasoning.

Research has shown that girls tend to exhibit more prosocial behavior than boys during adolescence. This difference in prosocial behavior between genders is a common finding in psychological studies.

Research has shown that the level of active engagement a student has in their schooling has a significant impact on their likelihood of finishing high school.

Erikson believed that the desirable outcome of the crisis of adolescence is developing a sense of identity and purpose to see oneself as a unique individual with a meaningful role in life.

Sexual orientation is believed to be influenced by genetics, meaning a person is born with their sexual orientation rather than it being a choice or solely based on upbringing or environmental factors.

James Marcia's identity statuses are based on the presence or absence of crisis and commitment, not other factors like identity and confusion, loyalty and independence, or stagnation and growth.

Erikson believed that the desirable outcome of the crisis of adolescence is the development of a strong sense of identity as a unique individual with a meaningful place in the world.

Factors such as peer pressure, lack of access to comprehensive sex education, and low self-esteem have all been cited as contributing to early sexual activity in adolescents, while late entrance into puberty is not typically associated with this decision.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease globally, with a high percentage of sexually active individuals being infected at some point in their lives.

During adolescence, early adolescents often prioritize how romantic relationships can affect their social status within their peer group over other factors in their lives.

Individuation specifically refers to the process through which adolescents seek independence and develop their own identity separate from their parents and peers.

Cliques are most prominent during early adolescence as this is a stage where teens are trying to establish their identity and seek belonging in peer groups.

Collective efficacy refers to the strength of social connections within the neighborhood, which can impact the ability of residents to work together towards common goals like preventing crime and improving the overall quality of life.

The correct term for this developmental stage is 'emerging adulthood', which is characterized by individuals navigating the transition from adolescence to full adulthood.

Studies have shown that African American adults are more susceptible to high blood pressure and Latino adults are more likely to have diabetes compared to Caucasian adults. However, the incorrect answers provided do not accurately reflect the health disparities observed among these cultural groups.

Postformal thought involves the ability to think beyond rigid or black-and-white thinking, incorporating both practical and abstract considerations.

Recentering is the process of experiencing a fundamental shift in perspective and values, leading to the development of an adult identity.

Bill, at age 30, is in the stage of intimacy versus isolation according to Erikson's psychosocial theory. This stage focuses on developing close relationships and forming intimate bonds with others. The other options are stages that occur earlier in life, such as trust versus mistrust in infancy, autonomy versus shame and doubt in early childhood, and initiative versus guilt in preschool years.

During Levinson's age-30 transition, men often reflect on their lives and consider the choices they have made up to that point.

Costa and McCrae's Five Personality Dimensions are Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness. Aggressiveness is not part of their model.

Sternberg's triangular theory of love consists of intimacy, passion, and commitment as the three key elements.

Cohabitation refers to unmarried couples living together in a romantic relationship. The correct answer highlights the fact that rates of cohabitation in the United States have significantly risen since 1960, making it a notable trend in modern society.

Accidents such as car crashes, drownings, falls, and poisoning are the leading cause of death among young adults due to their risk-taking behavior and lack of experience.