The lifespan perspective on human development assumes that development is __________.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The lifespan perspective on human development assumes that development is multidimensional and multidirectional. This means that development occurs in various domains (such as physical, cognitive, and psychosocial) and can involve gains and losses as individuals age. This perspective recognizes that human development is complex and dynamic, involving various factors and pathways over the course of a person's life. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because human development is not static and stable (A), can involve both continuous and discontinuous changes (C), and is influenced by a combination of heredity and environment rather than solely by heredity (D).

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Charles Darwin's theory of evolution emphasized natural selection and survival of the fittest. Natural selection is the process by which organisms with traits that help them survive and reproduce in their environment are more likely to pass on these traits to their offspring. Survival of the fittest refers to the idea that the organisms best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual evolution of species over time. Both concepts are central to Darwin's theory of evolution. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately reflect the key principles highlighted by Darwin in his theory of evolution.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The first successful intelligence test, the Binet-Simon Scale, was originally developed to identify children with learning problems who required special educational interventions. Choice A is incorrect because measuring individual differences in IQ was not the primary purpose of the test. Choice B is incorrect because documenting age-related improvements in children's intellectual functioning was not the main goal of the test. Choice D is incorrect because comparing the scores of people based on gender, ethnicity, and birth order was not the intended use of the intelligence test.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: One criticism of Freud's psychosexual theory was that it did not apply to other cultures. Freud developed his theory based on observations and cases from his clinical practice in a specific cultural context, mainly Western society. This limited cultural scope raised concerns about the generalizability and applicability of his theories to diverse cultural settings. Choice B is incorrect because Freud's theory actually emphasized the significant influence of sexual feelings on human development. Choice C is incorrect because Freud's theory focused on stages of psychosexual development rather than comparing human development to the evolution of the human species. Choice D is incorrect because Freud's psychosexual theory considered environmental influences, although it primarily centered on internal drives and conflicts.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: According to operant conditioning theory, the frequency of a behavior can be increased by following it with a wide variety of reinforcers. In operant conditioning, behaviors are shaped through reinforcement, which can be positive (rewarding) or negative (removal of something unpleasant). By providing reinforcement following a behavior, the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future is increased. This supports the notion that the frequency of a behavior can be increased by using reinforcers in operant conditioning. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because operant conditioning focuses on the relationship between behavior and its consequences through reinforcement (positive or negative) to increase the likelihood of the behavior recurring, rather than punishment, cultural influences, or the development of the id based on societal values.