The textbook describes a study where 2-year-olds played in a room and were exposed either once or twice to research assistants having an argument. A control group of children did not witness the research assistants arguing. The researchers then assessed the children's aggressive behaviors when they were alone. The main finding of the study was that children ________. The children who heard the research assistants arguing twice were ________ aggressive themselves than the children who heard the research assistants arguing only once.
A) become less reactive the more they are exposed to conflict; less
B) become increasingly reactive the more they are exposed to conflict; more
C) become desensitized to hearing adults arguing; less
D) become desensitized to hearing adults arguing; more

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The main finding of the study was that children become increasingly reactive the more they are exposed to conflict. The children who heard the research assistants arguing twice were more aggressive themselves than the children who heard the research assistants arguing only once. Therefore, option B is correct. Options A and C suggest that children become less reactive or desensitized, which contradicts the findings of the study. Option D suggests that children become desensitized, but does not specify whether they become more or less aggressive.

The Textbook Describes a Study Where 2-Year-Olds Played in a Room