Try This Psychology Practice Quiz
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In your text, psychology is defined as the
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Scientific study of the mind
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Empirical study of conscious and unconscious forces
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Study of mind and behavior
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Scientific study of behavior and mental processes
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Do you know about all the topics that come under Psychology? If you have understood everything well, try out this psychology practice quiz, and see how much you know. This quiz will help you review your psychology knowledge. You just need to pick the correct answers, and your scores will reveal how good is your psychological knowledge. All the best! See moreEven if you miss out on any questions, we are here to help you with the correct answers. So, don't worry, and proceed with this quiz.
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- 2.
Dr. Lucille offers quick, on-the-spot advice to problems presented by her call-in radio listeners, using mostly her own common sense beliefs and values rather than scientific research. This practice is more like _____ than _________.
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Critical thinking; psychology
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Social psychology; clinical psychology
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Pseudopsychology; psychology
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None of these options
Correct Answer
A. Pseudopsychology; psychologyExplanation
The given scenario describes a situation where Dr. Lucille offers advice based on her own beliefs and values rather than scientific research. This practice is more aligned with pseudopsychology, which refers to unscientific or unsupported psychological beliefs and practices. On the other hand, psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. Therefore, the practice described in the scenario is more like pseudopsychology than psychology.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which of the following are the goals of psychology?
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Describe, manipulate, control, and examine behavior
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Describe, explain, predict, and change behavior
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Predict, control, examine, and change behavior
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Manipulate, control, explain, and change behavior
Correct Answer
A. Describe, explain, predict, and change behaviorExplanation
The goals of psychology are to describe, explain, predict, and change behavior. This means that psychologists aim to accurately describe human behavior, understand the reasons behind it, make predictions about future behavior based on their understanding, and ultimately bring about positive changes in behavior through interventions and therapies.Rate this question:
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- 4.
________ is acknowledged as the "father of psychology."
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Freud
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Skinner
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Wundt
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Maslow
Correct Answer
A. WundtExplanation
Wilhelm Wundt is acknowledged as the "father of psychology" because he is considered to be the founder of experimental psychology. He established the first psychology laboratory in 1879 at the University of Leipzig, Germany, which marked the beginning of psychology as a separate scientific discipline. Wundt's emphasis on studying conscious experiences through introspection and his focus on experimental methods laid the foundation for the development of modern psychology. His work greatly influenced the field and paved the way for future psychologists to further explore and understand the human mind and behavior.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Who developed psychoanalytic theory?
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Freud
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James
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Wundt
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Watson
Correct Answer
A. FreudExplanation
Psychoanalytic theory was developed by Sigmund Freud. He was an Austrian neurologist and the founder of psychoanalysis. Freud's theory focused on the unconscious mind, childhood experiences, and the role of sexuality in shaping human behavior. He believed that unconscious desires and conflicts influenced our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Freud's work revolutionized the field of psychology and had a significant impact on the understanding and treatment of mental disorders.Rate this question:
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- 6.
_______ emphasized objective, observable behaviors.
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Functionalism
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Gestalt psychology
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Freud
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Behavior perspective
Correct Answer
A. Behavior perspectiveExplanation
The behavior perspective in psychology emphasizes objective, observable behaviors. This perspective focuses on studying how individuals' behaviors are influenced by their environment, and how they learn and adapt through their interactions with the world around them. It emphasizes the importance of studying measurable behaviors and the external factors that shape them, rather than focusing on internal mental processes or unconscious desires.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The _______ views biological processes, psychological factors, and social forces as interrelated influences, and it is one of the most widely accepted themes of modern psychology.
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Eclectic perspective
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Nature-nurture model
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Interactionist position
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Biopsychosocial model
Correct Answer
A. Biopsychosocial modelExplanation
The biopsychosocial model views biological processes, psychological factors, and social forces as interrelated influences. It recognizes that these factors all play a role in shaping human behavior and mental processes. This perspective is widely accepted in modern psychology because it takes into account the complex and multifaceted nature of human experiences and behavior. By considering the biological, psychological, and social aspects of a person's life, the biopsychosocial model provides a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental health.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Applied research is conducted to study _______.
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How people apply knowledge in an educational setting
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Theoretical questions that may or may not have real-world applications
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The goals of psychology
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Real-world, practical problems
Correct Answer
A. Real-world, practical problemsExplanation
Applied research is a type of research that focuses on solving real-world, practical problems. It aims to find practical solutions to issues that are relevant and applicable to the real world. This type of research is often conducted in fields such as engineering, medicine, and social sciences, where the findings can be directly implemented to address specific problems or improve existing practices. Unlike theoretical research, which explores abstract concepts and may not have immediate real-world applications, applied research is driven by the need to solve practical problems and make a tangible impact.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Research conducted to advance scientific knowledge rather than practical application is ______.
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Applied
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Descriptive
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Basic
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Correlation
Correct Answer
A. BasicExplanation
Research conducted to advance scientific knowledge rather than practical application is referred to as basic research. Basic research aims to expand our understanding of fundamental concepts and theories and is often conducted in academic or research institutions. This type of research focuses on exploring new ideas, theories, and hypotheses, without immediate practical applications in mind. It lays the groundwork for further applied research that can be used to develop practical solutions and innovations.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Most scientific investigations begin with ____ and sometimes end with _______.
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A testable hypothesis; replication
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Designing a study; collecting data
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Identifying questions of interest; building a theory
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Reviewing the literature; theory
Correct Answer
A. Identifying questions of interest; building a theoryExplanation
Scientific investigations typically start by identifying questions of interest, as researchers seek to explore and understand various phenomena. This initial step involves formulating specific questions or problems that can be addressed through research. Once questions of interest are identified, scientists proceed to build a theory, which is a well-substantiated explanation of observed phenomena. The theory is developed based on the data collected through experimentation and observation, and it helps to explain and predict future outcomes. Therefore, the correct answer is "identifying questions of interest; building a theory."Rate this question:
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- 11.
A precise description of how the variables in a study will be observed and measured is known as _______.
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A hypothesis
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An operational definition
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A theory
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The scientific method
Correct Answer
A. An operational definitionExplanation
An operational definition is a precise description of how the variables in a study will be observed and measured. It outlines the specific procedures or criteria that will be used to determine the presence or absence of a particular variable. This helps to ensure that the study is conducted in a standardized and consistent manner, allowing for accurate and reliable measurement of the variables under investigation. Hypotheses, theories, and the scientific method are all related concepts, but they do not specifically refer to the description of how variables will be observed and measured.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What are the four major types of psychological research?
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Correlation, case study, naturalistic observation, survey
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Experiment, non-experiment, pseudopsychology, correlational
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Structuralism, functionalism, behaviorism, psychoanalytic
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Experimental, descriptive, correlational, biological
Correct Answer
A. Experimental, descriptive, correlational, biologicalExplanation
The four major types of psychological research are experimental, descriptive, correlational, and biological. Experimental research involves manipulating variables to determine cause and effect relationships. Descriptive research involves observing and describing behavior or characteristics without manipulating variables. Correlational research examines the relationship between variables without manipulating them. Biological research focuses on understanding the biological basis of behavior and mental processes.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Only the experiment allows researchers to determine _______.
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Relationships
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Correlations
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Cause and effect
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The goals of psychology
Correct Answer
A. Cause and effectExplanation
The experiment is the only research method that allows researchers to determine cause and effect relationships. In an experiment, the researcher manipulates an independent variable and observes the effect it has on a dependent variable. This allows them to establish a cause and effect relationship between the variables. Other research methods, such as surveys or observations, can only establish correlations or relationships between variables, but cannot determine causation. Therefore, the experiment is the most valuable method for determining cause and effect in research.Rate this question:
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- 14.
An experimenter wishes to see if there is a difference between the two types of memory techniques. She taught one group of participants Technique A and another group Technique B. Then, she gives each group a list of words to memorize. Two weeks later, she tested the participants to measure how many words they remembered. What is the dependent variable in this experiment?
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Number of words in the list
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Memory techniques
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Sex of the experimenter
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Number of words remembered
Correct Answer
A. Number of words rememberedExplanation
The dependent variable in this experiment is the number of words remembered. This is because the experimenter wants to measure the effect of the different memory techniques (independent variable) on the participants' ability to remember words. By comparing the number of words remembered by each group, the experimenter can determine if there is a difference between Technique A and Technique B in terms of their effectiveness in memory recall. The other options provided - number of words in the list, memory techniques, and sex of the experimenter - are not the focus of the experiment and therefore not the dependent variable.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What is the independent variable in the experiment described in the previous question?
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Number of words in the list
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Memory Technique A or B
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Sex of the experimenter
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Number of words remembered
Correct Answer
A. Memory Technique A or BExplanation
The independent variable in the experiment described in the previous question is the memory technique used, either Technique A or Technique B. The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or changed by the experimenter to observe its effect on the dependent variable, which is the number of words remembered. By comparing the two memory techniques, the experimenter can determine which technique is more effective in improving memory.Rate this question:
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- 16.
When participants are not exposed to any amount or level of the independent variable, they are members of the _______.
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Control condition
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Experimental condition
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Observation group
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None of these options
Correct Answer
A. Control conditionExplanation
When participants are not exposed to any amount or level of the independent variable, they are members of the control condition. In an experiment, the control condition serves as a baseline or comparison group, where participants do not receive the experimental treatment or intervention. This allows researchers to assess the effects of the independent variable by comparing it to the control condition, which remains unchanged.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The tendency of experimenters to influence the results of their experiment in an expected direction is called _____.
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Experimenter bias
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Control bias
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Observational bias
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Experimental bias
Correct Answer
A. Experimenter biasExplanation
Experimenter bias refers to the tendency of researchers to unintentionally influence the results of an experiment in a way that aligns with their expectations or desired outcome. This bias can occur due to conscious or unconscious actions, such as unintentionally treating different groups differently or subtly influencing participants' behavior. Experimenter bias can undermine the validity and reliability of the experiment, making it important for researchers to take steps to minimize and control for this bias.Rate this question:
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- 18.
When both the researcher and the participants are unaware of who is in the experimental or control group, the research design can be called _______.
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Reliable
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A double-blind
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Valid
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Deceptive
Correct Answer
A. A double-blindExplanation
A double-blind research design refers to a situation where both the researcher and the participants are unaware of who is in the experimental or control group. This is done to eliminate bias and ensure the validity and reliability of the study. By keeping both parties unaware, the researchers can prevent any conscious or unconscious biases from influencing the results, making the study more reliable and valid.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A number that indicates the degree and direction of the relationship between two variables is known as ________.
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Statistics
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A correlation coefficient
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Statistical significance
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None of these options
Correct Answer
A. A correlation coefficientExplanation
A correlation coefficient is a number that quantifies the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables. It measures how closely the variables are related and whether the relationship is positive or negative. This statistical measure is used to determine the degree of association between variables and is commonly used in research and data analysis.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The _______ indicated which areas of the brain are active or inactive during ordinary activities or responses.
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Computed tomography (CT)
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Positron emission tomography (PET)
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Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Correct Answer
A. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)Explanation
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is the correct answer because it is a technique that measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow and oxygenation. It is used to identify which areas of the brain are active or inactive during ordinary activities or responses. CT, PET, and MRI are all imaging techniques, but they do not specifically measure brain activity in the same way as fMRI.Rate this question:
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- 21.
When you objectively evaluate, compare, analyze, and synthesize information about a ballot proposition or political candidate, you are using _______.
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Psychological processing
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Critical thinking
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Behaviorism
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The scientific method
Correct Answer
A. Critical thinkingExplanation
Critical thinking is the process of objectively evaluating, comparing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. It involves using logic, reasoning, and evidence to form well-reasoned judgments and make informed decisions. When evaluating a ballot proposition or political candidate, critical thinking allows individuals to consider different perspectives, assess the credibility of sources, identify biases, and weigh the evidence before forming an opinion. It helps to separate fact from opinion and make informed choices based on evidence and logical reasoning.Rate this question:
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- 22.
One of the most enduring debates in science is the _________ controversy, which asks whether we're controlled by biological and genetic factors or by the environment and learning.
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Mind-body
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Nature-nurture
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Biopsychosocial
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None of these options
Correct Answer
A. Nature-nurtureExplanation
The correct answer is "nature-nurture". This term refers to the ongoing debate in science about whether our behavior and traits are determined more by our genetic makeup (nature) or by our environment and experiences (nurture). It explores the extent to which biology and genetics influence our behavior and the extent to which our behavior is shaped by our surroundings and upbringing. This controversy has been a topic of discussion in various fields, including psychology, biology, and sociology.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Hsao-Wei was sent to the school psychologist to be tested, and based on her IQ score. She was placed in a program for gifted children. This illustrates psychology's goal of ________ behavior.
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Describing
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Explaining
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Predicting
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Changing
Correct Answer
A. PredictingExplanation
This scenario illustrates psychology's goal of predicting behavior because Hsao-Wei's IQ score was used to determine her placement in a program for gifted children. By assessing her intelligence, the psychologist was able to predict her future academic performance and potential.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The goal of _____ is to tell "what" occurred, whereas the goal of _______ is to tell "why."
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Health psychologists; biological psychologists
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Description; explanation
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Psychologists; psychiatrists
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Pseudopsychologists; clinical psychologists
Correct Answer
A. Description; explanationExplanation
The goal of description is to provide a detailed account or portrayal of an event or phenomenon, focusing on the "what" aspect. On the other hand, the goal of explanation is to provide reasons or causes for why something happened, focusing on the "why" aspect. In this context, health psychologists aim to describe health-related behaviors and experiences, while biological psychologists aim to explain the underlying biological processes.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Observable behaviors are the primary focus in which of the following approaches to psychology?
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Humanistic
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Psychodynamic
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Behaviorism
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Cognitive
Correct Answer
A. BehaviorismExplanation
Behaviorism is the correct answer because it is an approach to psychology that focuses on observable behaviors. It emphasizes the study of behaviors that can be directly observed and measured, rather than focusing on internal mental processes or unconscious motivations. Behaviorists believe that behaviors can be learned through conditioning and that they can be influenced and modified through reinforcement and punishment. This approach is rooted in the belief that behaviors can be objectively studied and understood without needing to delve into subjective experiences or unconscious processes.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following terms are properly matched?
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Psychoanalysis and free-will
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Humanist and self-actualization
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Functionalism and unconscious conflict
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Biopsychology and introspection
Correct Answer
A. Functionalism and unconscious conflictExplanation
Functionalism and unconscious conflict are properly matched because functionalism is a psychological theory that focuses on the adaptive functions of behavior and how they contribute to survival and well-being. Unconscious conflict refers to the idea that our behavior is influenced by unconscious desires, fears, and conflicts. This matches with functionalism because it recognizes the importance of understanding the underlying motivations and conflicts that drive behavior.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Someone who believes that behavior is the result of complex chemical and biological events within the brain is known as a(n) _________.
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Information processor
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Ecological psychologist
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Evolutionary psychologist
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Neuroscientist/biopsychologist
Correct Answer
A. Neuroscientist/biopsychologistExplanation
A neuroscientist/biopsychologist is someone who studies the relationship between the brain, behavior, and mental processes. They believe that behavior is influenced by complex chemical and biological events within the brain. They examine how the brain and nervous system function, and how they contribute to behavior and mental processes. This field combines the study of neuroscience, which focuses on the brain and nervous system, with psychology, which explores behavior and mental processes.Rate this question:
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- 28.
________ was the first woman president of the American Psychological Association, and ______ was the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in psychology.
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Calkins, Washburn
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Skinner, Watson
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Titchener, Wundt
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Calkins, Sumner
Correct Answer
A. Calkins, SumnerExplanation
Calkins was the first woman president of the American Psychological Association, which indicates her significant contribution and leadership in the field of psychology. Sumner, on the other hand, was the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, highlighting his groundbreaking achievement and representation of diversity in the field.Rate this question:
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- 29.
_________ research is conducted to explore new theories and advance scientific knowledge. _______ research attempts to solve real-world, practical problems.
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Experimental; nonexperimental
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Correlational; survey
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Basic; applied
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Theoretical; hypothetical
Correct Answer
A. Basic; appliedExplanation
Basic research is conducted to explore new theories and advance scientific knowledge. It is focused on expanding our understanding of fundamental principles and concepts. On the other hand, applied research attempts to solve real-world, practical problems. It aims to find solutions and develop practical applications based on the existing scientific knowledge.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Describing drug abuse as "the number of missed works days due to excessive use of an addictive substance" is an example of _______.
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A theory
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A hypothesis
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An operational definition
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Meta-analysis
Correct Answer
A. An operational definitionExplanation
An operational definition is a clear and specific definition that describes how a variable will be measured or observed in a study. In this case, describing drug abuse as "the number of missed work days due to excessive use of an addictive substance" provides a specific and measurable way to identify and quantify drug abuse. It outlines the specific criteria that will be used to determine whether someone is engaging in drug abuse, making it an example of an operational definition.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Sometimes ________ is used in order to create a realistic situation with genuine reactions from participants.
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Trickery
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Deception
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A nonmonetary incentive
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Case observation
Correct Answer
A. DeceptionExplanation
Deception is used in order to create a realistic situation with genuine reactions from participants. By intentionally misleading or tricking participants, the true nature of the situation can be concealed, allowing for more authentic responses and behaviors. This can be particularly useful in research studies or simulations where the goal is to observe and understand how individuals react in certain circumstances without their awareness of being observed.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The explanation a researcher provides to participants about the research process when it is over is called a(n) _______.
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Case conference
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Study's footnote
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Debriefing
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Exit interview
Correct Answer
A. DebriefingExplanation
Debriefing is the correct answer because it refers to the explanation a researcher provides to participants after the research process is completed. This explanation typically includes information about the purpose of the study, the procedures that were followed, and any potential implications or findings. Debriefing allows participants to understand the study better, address any concerns or questions they may have, and ensure their informed consent was respected throughout the research process.Rate this question:
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- 33.
__________ research is NOT one of the four major research methods in psychology?
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Experimental
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Participant observation
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Descriptive
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Correlational
Correct Answer
A. Participant observationExplanation
Participant observation is not one of the four major research methods in psychology because it involves the researcher immersing themselves in a social setting and observing the behavior of individuals without manipulating any variables. This method is more commonly used in fields such as anthropology and sociology, where the goal is to understand the social and cultural dynamics of a group or community. In psychology, the four major research methods are experimental, descriptive, and correlational, which involve manipulating variables, observing and describing behavior, and examining relationships between variables, respectively.Rate this question:
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- 34.
In an experiment, the researcher __________.
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Isolates one or more variables and examines their effects on a behavior
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Controls the dependent variable and measures the independent variables
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Tests the subjects, manipulates, variables, and establishes correlations
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Observes one behavior to the exclusion of all other variables
Correct Answer
A. Isolates one or more variables and examines their effects on a behaviorExplanation
The correct answer is "isolates one or more variables and examines their effects on a behavior." In an experiment, the researcher isolates specific variables to determine their impact on a particular behavior. By manipulating and controlling these variables, the researcher can analyze their effects and draw conclusions about their relationship to the behavior being studied. This approach allows for a systematic examination of cause-and-effect relationships and helps to establish a clear understanding of the variables involved.Rate this question:
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- 35.
In the statement, "this causes that," this is the _______.
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Constant
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Independent variable
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Dependent variable
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Hypothesis
Correct Answer
A. Independent variableExplanation
In the statement, "this causes that," the word "this" refers to the independent variable. The independent variable is the factor or condition that is manipulated or changed by the researcher in an experiment. It is independent because it is not influenced by any other variables in the experiment. In this case, "this" is the variable that is believed to have an effect on "that," which is the dependent variable. The dependent variable, on the other hand, is the variable that is being measured or observed and is expected to change in response to the independent variable.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Participants in the _____ are treated the same as participants in the ________, except they are not exposed to the independent variables.
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Experiment; nonexperiment
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Survey; case study
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Selection group; placebo group
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Control group; experimental group
Correct Answer
A. Control group; experimental groupExplanation
The control group and experimental group are treated the same in terms of procedures and conditions, with the only difference being that the control group is not exposed to the independent variables being tested. This allows researchers to compare the effects of the independent variables by measuring the differences between the control group and the experimental group.Rate this question:
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- 37.
An inactive substance or fake treatment used as a control technique in experiments is known as a _____.
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Double-blind
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Single-blind
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Independent variable
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Placebo
Correct Answer
A. PlaceboExplanation
A placebo is an inactive substance or fake treatment used in experiments to measure the effectiveness of an active treatment. It is used as a control technique to compare the results of the active treatment group with those who receive the placebo. This helps researchers determine if the observed effects are due to the treatment itself or simply a result of the participants' expectations or psychological factors.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Jane Goodall's study of chimpanzees in the jungle was an example of a _______.
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Survey
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Naturalistic observation
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Case study
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Single-blind study
Correct Answer
A. Naturalistic observationExplanation
Jane Goodall's study of chimpanzees in the jungle was an example of a naturalistic observation. This is because she observed the chimpanzees in their natural habitat without manipulating any variables or interfering with their behavior. Naturalistic observation allows researchers to gain a deep understanding of the subject's behavior in their natural environment, providing valuable insights into their natural behaviors and interactions.Rate this question:
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- 39.
The relationship between the color of your shoes and your teacher's mood today would be called a ________.
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Mood correlation
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Zero correlation
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Random sampling
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Negative correlation
Correct Answer
A. Zero correlationExplanation
The term "zero correlation" refers to a situation where there is no relationship or connection between two variables. In this case, the color of your shoes and your teacher's mood are unrelated and do not influence each other. Therefore, the correct answer is zero correlation.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Four types of brain scans are the ______.
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BRW, LEF, SSRS, MGI
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CAT, PET, DOG
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CT, PET MRI, fMRI
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GRE, SAT, GPA, USA
Correct Answer
A. CT, PET MRI, fMRIExplanation
The correct answer is CT, PET MRI, fMRI. These are the four types of brain scans mentioned in the options. CT (Computed Tomography) scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the brain's structure. PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan measures brain activity by detecting radioactive substances injected into the body. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain. fMRI (functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow.Rate this question:
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