Many Psychologists Are Interested in the Influence of "Nature Versus

question 56

Multiple Choice

Many psychologists are interested in the influence of "nature versus nurture" in child development. Which one of the following examples illustrates the influence of nature?

• A) Fourteen-year-old Deborah is starting to grow pubic hair, and she's just had her first menstrual period.
• B) Two-year-old Sophia is learning to speak two languages because her parents speak Spanish at home but everyone at her preschool speaks English.
• C) Ten-year-old Bart loves being outdoors. As far back as he can remember, his family has gone camping almost every weekend during the summer months.
• D) Eight-year-old Yannie goes to his Aunt Jane's house after school every day. As he watches television, Jane gives him as much candy and other sweets as he wants, and so he is becoming increasingly overweight.

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Definitions:

Conditioned Reinforcer

A stimulus that has acquired the capacity to reinforce behaviors through its association with a primary reinforcer.

Primary Reinforcer

A stimulus that satisfies a basic natural need, such as food or water, and motivates behavior without the need for learning.

Squirt of Water

A quick, sudden release of a small amount of water, often used in experiments as a form of stimulus or response.

Variable-Ratio

A schedule of reinforcement where a response is reinforced after an unpredictable number of responses, leading to high and stable rates of responding in behavior.