According to Erikson, the danger in middle childhood is __________, reflected in the pessimism of children who lack confidence in their ability to do things well.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: According to Erikson's psychosocial theory, the danger in middle childhood is 'inferiority.' During this stage, children may develop a sense of inadequacy and inferiority if they are unable to master the social and academic tasks expected of them. This feeling of inferiority can lead to low self-esteem and pessimism about their abilities. Choice A, 'shame,' is more closely associated with Erikson's stage of autonomy vs. shame and doubt in early childhood. Choice B, 'mistrust,' is linked to Erikson's stage of trust vs. mistrust in infancy. Choice D, 'despair,' is related to Erikson's stage of integrity vs. despair in late adulthood.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Vygotsky believed that language plays a crucial role in the development of higher cognitive functions. Language enables individuals to communicate, think abstractly, and engage in complex problem-solving, forming the foundation for higher cognitive processes. Egocentrism (Choice A) refers to a stage in Piaget's theory of cognitive development, not Vygotsky's. Sensorimotor activity (Choice C) is part of Piaget's stages of cognitive development, focusing on how infants understand the world through sensory experiences and physical actions. Self-reflection (Choice D) involves introspection and examination of one's thoughts and feelings, which is not the central concept in Vygotsky's theory.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'secure.' Research shows that the secure attachment pattern is the most common across various societies. In this pattern, children feel safe, secure, and loved, allowing them to explore the world and seek comfort from their caregivers when needed. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while these attachment patterns exist, they are not as prevalent or universal as the secure attachment pattern. Insecure-avoidant attachment involves children avoiding or ignoring their caregiver, insecure-resistant attachment consists of ambivalence and mixed emotions towards the caregiver, and disorganized/disoriented attachment is characterized by inconsistent and often chaotic behaviors towards the caregiver.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Avery demonstrating the ability to retrieve his ball hidden under a blanket indicates that he has started to understand object permanence. Object permanence is the concept that objects continue to exist even when they are out of sight. This milestone typically occurs around 8-12 months of age. The other choices are incorrect. Option A, the tertiary circular reaction, is related to Piaget's theory of sensorimotor development but does not specifically address object permanence. Reflexive schemes (Option B) refer to simple, reflex-like behaviors and are not directly linked to object permanence. Deferred imitation (Option D) involves the ability to imitate actions observed at an earlier time, which is a different developmental milestone compared to object permanence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Vision is the least-developed sense in newborn babies. While newborns can see, their vision is not as developed as their other senses at birth. Taste, sound, and touch are more developed senses in newborns compared to vision. Over time, through visual stimulation and experiences, a baby's vision gradually improves and develops.