Developmental Psychology: Teratology And Hazards To Prenatal Development

Exposure to teratogens, which are substances that can cause birth defects, during the fetal period can indeed lead to stunted growth and problems in organ functioning. This is because the fetus is still developing and is highly vulnerable to external factors. Teratogens can interfere with the normal growth and development of the fetus, leading to physical and functional abnormalities in organs. Therefore, it is true that exposure to teratogens during the fetal period is more likely to cause stunted growth and problems in organ functioning.

Teratology is the correct answer because it refers to the field of study that investigates the causes of birth defects and explores the deficits in functioning. It focuses on understanding how environmental factors and genetic variations can lead to abnormalities in development. Teratology plays a crucial role in identifying teratogens, which are substances or agents that can cause birth defects. Teratography, on the other hand, is not a recognized term in this context and does not relate to the study of birth defects.

A teratogen refers to any agent that has the potential to cause a birth defect or negatively alter cognitive and behavioral outcomes. These agents can include substances such as drugs, chemicals, infections, or even environmental factors like radiation. When a teratogen is present during pregnancy, it can disrupt the normal development of the fetus, leading to structural abnormalities or functional impairments. It is important for pregnant individuals to avoid exposure to teratogens to ensure the healthy development of their baby.

During the germinal period, which is the first two weeks of pregnancy, the fertilized egg travels down the fallopian tube and eventually implants itself into the uterine lining. If there is damage to the embryo during this period, it may prevent successful implantation. Therefore, the statement "Damage during the germinal period may prevent implantation" is true.

embryonic period is more vulnerable

Male fetuses are more likely to be affected by teratogens because they have only one X chromosome compared to females who have two. This means that if the X chromosome is affected by a teratogen, there is no backup copy in males to compensate for the damage. In contrast, females have the potential to have one healthy X chromosome to compensate for any damage caused by teratogens. Therefore, male fetuses are at a higher risk of being affected by teratogens.

It means "monster"

During the early embryonic period, the cells are rapidly dividing and differentiating to form the various organs and tissues of the body. This is a critical stage of development where any disruptions or errors in the genetic or environmental factors can lead to structural defects. As the development progresses into the late embryonic and fetal periods, the major organ systems have already formed, reducing the likelihood of structural defects. Therefore, the probability of a structural defect is greatest in the early embryonic period.

The correct answer is critical period. The critical period refers to a specific time period early in prenatal development where certain events or experiences can have a significant and long-lasting impact on the overall development of an organism. During this time, the organism is particularly sensitive and responsive to specific stimuli or influences, and if these critical periods are missed or disrupted, it may result in irreversible consequences for development.

less likely to cause defects after organogenesis