With which of the following statements would a behaviorist agree?

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Exam 4 Psychology Questions

Question 1 of 5

With which of the following statements would a behaviorist agree?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Behaviorists argue that psychology should focus on observable behavior that can be studied objectively. Choice A is incorrect because behaviorists do not typically focus on conscious experiences, as they are not directly observable. Choice B is incorrect because behaviorists emphasize that behavior can be understood without delving into internal motives. Choice C is incorrect as behaviorists do not exclusively explain behavior through an individual's interpretation of experience; they focus on observable actions and reactions.

Question 2 of 5

A group of psychologists is conducting research to determine whether people eat more when they are in the presence of environmental stimuli that increase anxiety, such as loud noises or flashing lights. These scientists most likely follow?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, the behavioral perspective. This perspective focuses on how environmental stimuli influence behavior, making it suitable for studying how anxiety-inducing stimuli affect eating behavior. The psychodynamic perspective (choice B) would focus more on unconscious processes and early life experiences. The humanistic perspective (choice C) emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization. The functionalist perspective (choice D) is more related to the study of the purpose of behavior and mental processes in adapting to the environment.

Question 3 of 5

Who took the position that organisms tend to repeat responses that lead to positive outcomes and tend not to repeat responses that lead to neutral or negative outcomes?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B.F. Skinner. Skinner proposed the theory of operant conditioning, where behavior is shaped by its consequences. Positive outcomes increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while neutral or negative outcomes decrease it. Sigmund Freud (choice A) is known for his psychoanalytic theory, Carl Rogers (choice C) for person-centered therapy, and Abraham Maslow (choice D) for the hierarchy of needs.

Question 4 of 5

Which school of psychology takes the most positive view of human nature?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Humanism. Humanism is a school of psychology that focuses on the positive aspects of human nature, emphasizing personal growth, self-actualization, and the inherent goodness in individuals. Behaviorism (choice A) primarily focuses on observable behaviors and conditioning, functionalism (choice B) emphasizes the functions of consciousness and behavior adaptation, and psychoanalysis (choice D) delves into unconscious thoughts and childhood experiences, rather than having a fundamentally positive view of human nature.

Question 5 of 5

Which of the following statements is least likely to be made by a humanist?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The corrected question assesses the least likely statement made by a humanist. Choice B, 'The behavior of humans tends to be influenced by environmental circumstances,' is least likely to be made by a humanist. Humanists believe that human behavior is not simply dictated by environmental circumstances but is influenced by a combination of factors, including personal experiences, emotions, and conscious decisions. Choices A, C, and D are more aligned with humanist perspectives. Choice A acknowledges the uniqueness of humans, which is a common theme in humanistic psychology. Choice C reflects the humanistic belief that individuals strive to reach their full potential and self-actualization. Choice D contrasts with humanist views as humanists often consider research on animals to be relevant in understanding human behavior due to shared basic psychological processes.

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