Criticism of the Thrifty Gene Theory

What is the central criticism of the Thrifty Gene Theory?

It provides a complex model that inhibits understanding of body composition.
It underestimates the importance of environmental factors in body composition.
It overemphasizes the role of genetic factors in body composition. (correct)
It suggests that genetic factors are entirely responsible for body composition.

According to genetic theories, what percentage of the risk for obesity is attributed to genetic factors?

75%
25% (correct)
50%
10%

What does Set-Point Theory propose about an individual's fat storage and metabolic rate?

They are influenced by behavioral factors only.
They are regulated by a proportional feedback control system. (correct)
They are random and unpredictable.
They are solely determined by genetic factors.

Which theory explains why individuals tend to maintain a relatively constant body weight throughout their adult life?

Settling-Point Theory (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Thrifty Gene Theory suggest about individual variation in body composition?

It is mostly attributed to genetic components. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the risk for obesity is due to interactions between behavior and the environment?

75% (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of leptin in the feedback control system?

Regulate food intake and metabolism (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the brain detects alterations in leptin levels to regulate food intake and metabolism?

Hypothalamus (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the arcuate nucleus (ARC) within the hypothalamus?

Integrate hormonal and metabolic signals to generate a coordinated feedback response (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which nucleus in the hypothalamus acts on the feedback response to alter energy intake and expenditure?

Paraventricular nucleus (PVN) (B) Signup and view all the answers

How do POMC neurons within the ARC influence energy metabolism?

Reduce food intake and increase energy metabolism (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of AgRP neurons within the ARC regarding energy efficiency?

Increase food intake and reduce energy metabolism (become more energy efficient) (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why has community design become a crucial factor in understanding obesity rates?

To intervene in obesity related morbidity. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What has happened to the opportunities for physical education in elementary schools according to the text?

They have been reduced drastically. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How has community design shifted with regard to cars, walking, and biking according to the text?

It now centers around cars instead of walking or biking. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What impact has the transition to 'strip-mall' development had on communities?

Reduced opportunities for physical activity. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the lack of walking or biking options to school considered a concern according to the text?

It results in decreased physical activity for individuals. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What role do obesogenic attitudes, values, and behaviors play in the increased risk of obesity?

They contribute to an increased risk of obesity. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key point highlighted by the text regarding the influence of genetics on obesity risk?

Having an obese parent increases the risk of obesity by 80%. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Based on the text, which social relationship has the highest impact on an individual's risk of obesity?

Spouse (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the text suggest social networks influence an individual's likelihood of adopting obesity-related behaviors?

Social networks can serve as references for correct behaviors. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the text, what is the significance of the Framingham Heart Study data?

The data highlights the role of social relationships in altering the risk of obesity. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What concept is associated with the idea that individuals acquire attitudes, values, and behaviors through social interactions?

Social Learning Theory (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding environmental influences essential for primary prevention efforts against obesity?

Environmental influences play a crucial role in changing risk profiles for obesity. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is an important aspect to acknowledge about changes in gene expression according to the text?

They occur throughout the lifespan and at different developmental stages (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is supported by the text regarding epigenetic effects?

Both maternal and paternal contributions can lead to epigenetic effects (D) Signup and view all the answers

What might happen if persistent environmental or behavior characteristics are present for more than three generations?

More dramatic alterations in expression may result (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it advantageous to bring on more permanent adaptations or dramatic changes if a family is exposed to consistent environmental pressures?

To support the context in which the family lives (B) Signup and view all the answers

Apart from genetic and environmental influences, what other factor plays a critical role in the risk of obesity according to the text?

Behavioral lifestyle choices (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of obesity, what does the central framework of behavioral perspectives revolve around according to the text?

Patterns of behaviors and decision making over food consumption and physical activity (A) Signup and view all the answers