Which of the following is not a common method for studying genetic influences?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Studying specific gene defects is not a common method for investigating genetic influences. Choices B, C, and D are common methods used in genetic research. Twin studies help determine the heritability of traits, adoption studies compare similarities between adopted individuals and their adoptive families versus biological families, and family history studies track the inheritance patterns of traits within families.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A psychologist who studies the relationship between sociocultural factors and mental disorders would focus on factors like poverty and racial discrimination. These factors have a significant impact on mental health outcomes within different populations. Choices A, C, and D are less directly related to sociocultural factors like poverty and racial discrimination and their influence on mental disorders, making them incorrect.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Infant characteristics can indeed influence the quality of attachment relationships. Parents often respond to their infants based on their characteristics, temperament, and needs. This interaction shapes the attachment bond between the parent and the child. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because infant characteristics do have an impact on parental behavior and are influenced by various factors, including biological ones.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Biological discoveries have indeed led to a recognition of the role that genetic factors and other biological influences play in the development of many disorders. This understanding has shifted the focus from purely environmental explanations to acknowledging the significant impact of genetics and biology on mental health. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because biological discoveries have not specifically addressed the subjectivity of definitions of abnormality, minimized the role of the environment in psychopathology, or definitively classified mental disorders as diseases that should only be handled by the medical profession.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Freud's important contribution was that he applied the same principles to both normal and abnormal behavior. This approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of human behavior without creating a rigid distinction between normal and abnormal psychology. Choice A is incorrect because Freud's theory did not primarily focus on the role of women in society. Choice B is incorrect as Freud's theories were largely based on clinical observations and case studies rather than experimental evidence. Choice D is incorrect as Freud's theory emphasized the unconscious mind and conflicts rather than solely focusing on positive growth for individuals.