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: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'the United States.' According to the information provided, the United States has the highest percentage of extremely poor children among Western nations. This is supported by the extract, which states that the United States leads in this aspect. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as the question specifically asks for the country with the highest percentage of extremely poor children among Western nations, which is the United States.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: deficits.' Most cognitive aging research has indeed focused on deficits rather than stability, gains, or competence. Studies have consistently shown that deficits in processing speed and memory are common in aging individuals, making it a primary area of interest in research. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because cognitive aging research primarily aims to understand and address deficits associated with aging rather than focusing on stability, gains, or overall competence.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: According to Jean Piaget, equilibrium is the balance between what children already know (internal structures) and the new information they encounter. Imitation (choice A) is not directly related to this concept. Adaptation (choice B) involves adjusting to new information and is part of Piaget's theory, but it does not specifically refer to the balance between internal structures and external information. Cognition (choice C) is a broader term that encompasses mental processes, including thinking, learning, and problem-solving, but it is not specifically about the balance between internal structures and external information as equilibrium is.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, guilt. Guilt is a self-conscious emotion that involves reflecting on one's actions and feeling remorse. Self-conscious emotions are those that require self-reflection and self-evaluation. Choices B, C, and D are not self-conscious emotions. Happiness and fear are not self-conscious emotions as they do not necessarily involve self-reflection. Interest is not a self-conscious emotion but rather a feeling of curiosity or attraction towards something.