Question 1

According to the book, research on identical and fraternal twins has shown that approximately _______percent of variation in temperament is the result of genetics.

Accepted Answer

Research on identical and fraternal twins has indicated that genetics accounts for about 40-50% of the variation in temperament. This suggests that while genetics play a significant role in determining temperament, environmental factors and experiences also contribute substantially.

Question 2

A good example of characteristics associated with the concept of "relational self" is

Accepted Answer

The concept of "relational self" refers to aspects of an individual's identity that are shaped by their relationships and social interactions. Sociability is a characteristic that directly involves interacting with others, making it a good example of a trait associated with the relational self.

Question 3

Characteristics considered typical of a "difficult" child vary from one culture to another. For example, Nanta of the Masai tribe would consider a quiet and shy infant "difficult" to care for in her society. In Japan, Akiko considers her demanding, highly energetic, son "difficult." This cultural difference can best be explained by which of the following?

Accepted Answer

The concept of "goodness-of-fit" explains how well a child's temperament matches the expectations and values of their cultural environment, leading to different perceptions of what is considered "difficult" behavior.

Question 4

In research in the West Indies, in which black and white preschoolers were presented with black dolls and white dolls, Gopaul-McNichol (1995) found that

Accepted Answer

Gopaul-McNichol's research found that both black and white preschoolers showed a preference for the white doll, indicating internalized racial biases from a young age.

Question 5

The ability to adjust the self-concept in response to changing ecological conditions, and preserving a positive self-concept in older age is described as

Accepted Answer

The answer of The ability to adjust the self-concept in...

Question 6

Cross-cultural researchers have shown that adolescents in some cultures struggle more with the stage of identity formation than do others. Which factor makes this transition from adolescent identity to adult identity easier?

Accepted Answer

Clearly defined roles provide a clear path and expectations for adolescents, making the transition to adult identity smoother by reducing uncertainty and confusion.

Question 7

"Self-efficacy" is best defined as

Accepted Answer

Self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments. It reflects confidence in the ability to exert control over one's own motivation, behavior, and social environment.

Question 8

The relationship between collectivism and interdependent self-concept, as well as individualism and independent self-concept, is a good example of

Accepted Answer

The relationship between collectivism (a cultural or societal attribute) and interdependent self-concept, as well as individualism and independent self-concept, exemplifies the interaction of the macrosystem (the broader cultural or societal context) and the individual. The macrosystem encompasses the overarching cultural or societal beliefs, values, and norms that influence individual behavior and perceptions.

Question 9

Various researchers have found cultural differences in self-esteem among children. One of the possible explanations discussed in the text is

Accepted Answer

Differences in child-rearing practices can significantly influence self-esteem, as cultural norms and values shape how children are raised and what behaviors are encouraged or discouraged.

Question 10

As discussed in the text, Jensen has conducted research on globalization and its effects on development in East Indians. Jensen's research focused on

Accepted Answer

Jensen's research focused on adolescents' attitudes toward arranged marriage, exploring how globalization influences cultural practices and perceptions among younger generations in East Indian communities.

Question 11

Melissa would be characterized as a "difficult child" in terms of Thomas and Chess' classification system of infant temperament in the United States. She is most likely to show which of the following characteristics?

Accepted Answer

Thomas and Chess' classification system identifies difficult children as those who are likely to have irregular sleeping and eating patterns, are slow to accept new experiences, and tend to react negatively and intensely. Therefore, irregular sleeping patterns (B) align with the characteristics of a difficult child.

Question 12

Clifford Geertz found that people in Bali most frequently use tekonyms as a way of referring to themselves and other people. Which of the following is an example of a tekonym?

Accepted Answer

Tekonyms are terms used to refer to parents by the names of their children. Choice A, "My mother's daughter," indirectly refers to oneself or a sibling in relation to the mother, fitting the concept of tekonymy by defining individuals through their familial connections, particularly through their children or siblings, rather than direct personal identifiers.

Question 13

Akira, a Japanese adolescent, and Carl, from the U.S., both responded to the question "Who am I?" by writing down as many answers as possible. Carl's self-description is more likely to include which of the following?

Accepted Answer

In individualistic cultures like the U.S., self-descriptions often emphasize personal traits and abilities, such as being "smart," rather than social roles or relationships.

Question 14

Which of the following Big Five personality factors tends to decrease with age, across a variety of cultures?

Accepted Answer

Extraversion tends to decrease with age, across a variety of cultures.

Question 15

Which of the following statements about the origin of the Big Five personality traits is true?

Accepted Answer

The Big Five personality traits were identified using a lexical approach, which involved analyzing language and identifying the most common descriptors for personality traits. This method assumes that the most important differences in human personality are encoded in the language we use to describe people.

Question 16

The Tuareg people of the Sahara are seasonal nomads with a need to survive in harsh climates. Tuareg mothers do not approve of infants who are dependent and demand a lot of attention, whereas in Japan, mothers encourage closeness and respond immediately when children show anxiety. Explain these differences by using the concept of "goodness-of-fit."

Accepted Answer

The answer of The Tuareg people of the Sahara are...

Question 17

Ai has just moved from Korea (a collectivist culture) to Scotland (an individualistic culture). Although she has a good job, friendly colleagues, and some friends, she has a difficult time adjusting. Explain the challenges she may experience with regard to her self-concept during this transition.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Ai has just moved from Korea (a...

Question 18

Describe changes in Big Five personality traits that tend to occur with aging. Provide two explanations for these changes.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Describe changes in Big Five personality traits...

Quiz 6: Culture, Self, and Personality