In an investigation of over 120,000 New York City births, babies born even 1 to 2 weeks early __________ than children who experienced a full-length prenatal period.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the investigation of over 120,000 New York City births, babies born even 1 to 2 weeks early showed lower reading and math scores at a third-grade follow-up compared to children who experienced a full-length prenatal period. This suggests that being born slightly premature can have an impact on cognitive development, leading to educational challenges later on. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the study specifically highlighted lower reading and math scores, not a reduced likelihood of suffering from childhood obesity or neurological impairments, or improved language and social/emotional scores in early childhood.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Quiet alertness is indeed the most fleeting state of arousal. This state is characterized by a newborn infant being awake, calm, and attentive, but it is short-lived and transitions quickly to other states of arousal. Regular sleep, REM sleep, and drowsiness are not considered as brief and transitional as quiet alertness in newborn infants.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Young infants usually cry because of physical needs such as hunger, discomfort, or needing to be changed. It is their way of communicating these needs to their caregivers as they are unable to do so in any other way. Choice A is incorrect because infants cry primarily to communicate physical needs, not because they are bored. Choice B is incorrect because the tone of the cry is not the reason why infants cry. Choice D is incorrect because infants cry for various physical needs, not necessarily all night long.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Newborn Mariana, who reacts strongly to unpleasant stimuli, is described as susceptible to colic. Colic is often characterized by excessive crying and fussiness in newborn babies, which can be challenging to console. This description suggests that Mariana's strong reactions to unpleasant stimuli may make her more prone to colic. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the strong reactions to unpleasant stimuli do not imply being easy to console, affect REM sleep, or responsiveness to swaddling.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The sense of smell in mammals, including humans, plays a crucial role in helping mothers and babies identify each other. This is important for initiating bonding and caregiving behaviors. Choice A is incorrect because the sense of smell is functional at birth and not entirely underdeveloped for several years. Choice C is incorrect as the sense of smell is actually well-developed at birth. Choice D is incorrect because the sense of smell is functional from birth and does not take several months to become adultlike.