Psychology - Life Span - Chapter 4 - Book Work (Pt 3 - T/F)

Low birthweight is often correlated with maternal malnutrition because when a pregnant woman does not receive adequate nutrition, it can negatively impact the growth and development of the fetus. Maternal malnutrition can lead to a decrease in the supply of essential nutrients to the fetus, resulting in low birthweight. This can have long-term consequences for the baby's health and development. Therefore, it is true that low birthweight is often correlated with maternal malnutrition.

The Apgar scale is a standardized assessment tool used to evaluate the physical condition of a newborn immediately after birth. It measures five vital signs: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and skin color. Each sign is given a score of 0, 1, or 2, and the scores are then added together to determine the overall health of the baby. Therefore, the statement that the Apgar scale is used to measure vital signs such as heart rate, breathing, and reflexes is true.

Newborns can recognize some of what they heard while in the womb because they are able to hear sounds during the last trimester of pregnancy. The auditory system of the fetus starts developing around 18 weeks, and by the third trimester, they can hear and recognize their mother's voice, as well as other familiar sounds. This recognition is possible because the fetus's auditory system is connected to the brain, allowing them to remember and respond to familiar sounds after birth.

Newborns crying moments after birth is a common and natural occurrence. Crying helps clear the baby's airways, stimulates breathing, and initiates the transition to life outside the womb. It is a reflexive response to the sudden change in environment and serves as a way for the baby to communicate their needs and discomfort. Therefore, the statement "Newborns usually cry on their own, moments after birth" is true.

At eight weeks after conception, the embryo has developed most of its basic organs. This is supported by scientific evidence and the normal timeline of fetal development. By this stage, major organs such as the heart, brain, liver, and kidneys have already started to form. The embryo also has the beginnings of limbs, facial features, and a beating heart. Therefore, it is accurate to say that at eight weeks after conception, the embryo has formed almost all the basic organs.

The given statement states that only 1% of births in the US occur at home. This means that the majority of births in the US happen in hospitals or other medical facilities. The statement is true because it implies that the majority of births in the US are attended by healthcare professionals who can provide necessary medical care and support during childbirth.

Cesarean sections are not rarely performed in the US today because of the resulting danger to the fetus. In fact, cesarean sections are quite common and are performed for various reasons including maternal health concerns, fetal distress, and previous cesarean deliveries. The decision to perform a cesarean section is based on individual circumstances and medical indications, rather than a blanket avoidance due to danger to the fetus.

The statement suggests that there is controversy surrounding the effects of cigarette smoking during pregnancy. This implies that there is no clear consensus or agreement among experts or researchers regarding the impact of smoking on pregnant women and their unborn babies. Therefore, the correct answer is false, indicating that the effects of cigarette smoking during pregnancy are not highly controversial.

Research has shown that immediate mother-infant contact at birth is not necessary for the normal emotional development of the child. While early contact and bonding between mother and infant can have positive effects, it is not an absolute requirement for normal emotional development. Other factors such as consistent caregiving, a nurturing environment, and responsive parenting can also contribute to a child's emotional development.

Behavioral teratogens are substances or factors that can cause abnormalities in the development of the brain and nervous system, leading to behavioral problems later in life. While it is true that teratogens can have a significant impact on the developing embryo, including structural abnormalities, it is not necessarily true that they have the greatest effect during the embryonic period. Some teratogens, such as alcohol or certain medications, can continue to affect brain development throughout pregnancy and even after birth. Therefore, the statement that behavioral teratogens have the greatest effect during the embryonic period is false.