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Questions and Answers
What was the primary focus of The Minnesota Twin Family Study?
What was the primary focus of The Minnesota Twin Family Study?
Which of the following accurately describes identical twins?
Which of the following accurately describes identical twins?
What similarities did Jim Springer and Jim Lewis exhibit when they were reunited?
What similarities did Jim Springer and Jim Lewis exhibit when they were reunited?
What aspect of development do heredity and environment interact to influence?
What aspect of development do heredity and environment interact to influence?
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What is a key finding from the study of the 'Jim twins' that relates to nature vs. nurture?
What is a key finding from the study of the 'Jim twins' that relates to nature vs. nurture?
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Which of the following best describes fraternal twins?
Which of the following best describes fraternal twins?
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What can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infant contracting AIDS from an infected mother?
What can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infant contracting AIDS from an infected mother?
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Which of the following maternal factors is NOT mentioned as affecting a fetus?
Which of the following maternal factors is NOT mentioned as affecting a fetus?
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Which of the following is a recommendation for pregnant women regarding weight gain?
Which of the following is a recommendation for pregnant women regarding weight gain?
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What physiological change occurs as a woman approaches labor?
What physiological change occurs as a woman approaches labor?
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What is the average weight gain recommended for women during pregnancy?
What is the average weight gain recommended for women during pregnancy?
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Which statement about exercise during pregnancy is true?
Which statement about exercise during pregnancy is true?
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What critical question does the film 'Three Identical Strangers' raise about human development?
What critical question does the film 'Three Identical Strangers' raise about human development?
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Which of the following statements best reflects the findings from the Minnesota study of identical twins?
Which of the following statements best reflects the findings from the Minnesota study of identical twins?
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What is the fundamental process of reproduction as described in the content?
What is the fundamental process of reproduction as described in the content?
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According to evolutionary psychology, what is emphasized in shaping behavior?
According to evolutionary psychology, what is emphasized in shaping behavior?
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What role do evolutionary developmental psychologists attribute to childhood?
What role do evolutionary developmental psychologists attribute to childhood?
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What constitutes the first cell of human life?
What constitutes the first cell of human life?
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What potential outcomes do genetic and chromosomal abnormalities have on child development?
What potential outcomes do genetic and chromosomal abnormalities have on child development?
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What is indicated by the phrase 'survival of the fittest' in evolutionary theory?
What is indicated by the phrase 'survival of the fittest' in evolutionary theory?
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What is the primary impact of the environment on genetic conditions, as described in the content?
What is the primary impact of the environment on genetic conditions, as described in the content?
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Which population is most affected by sickle-cell anemia?
Which population is most affected by sickle-cell anemia?
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What is the main purpose of an ultrasound during pregnancy?
What is the main purpose of an ultrasound during pregnancy?
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What procedure involves taking a sample of the placenta for genetic testing?
What procedure involves taking a sample of the placenta for genetic testing?
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What is a potential risk associated with amniocentesis?
What is a potential risk associated with amniocentesis?
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What can a triple screen test identify in pregnancies?
What can a triple screen test identify in pregnancies?
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What is a characteristic of the ultrasound procedure?
What is a characteristic of the ultrasound procedure?
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What is the goal of prenatal testing?
What is the goal of prenatal testing?
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What is true about the results of the maternal blood screening test?
What is true about the results of the maternal blood screening test?
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What does the chorionic villi sampling procedure test for?
What does the chorionic villi sampling procedure test for?
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The film 'Three Identical Strangers' shows triplets who were aware of each other during their upbringing.
The film 'Three Identical Strangers' shows triplets who were aware of each other during their upbringing.
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Natural selection is the evolutionary process that favors individuals best adapted to survive and reproduce.
Natural selection is the evolutionary process that favors individuals best adapted to survive and reproduce.
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The zygote is the last stage of human life before cell division begins.
The zygote is the last stage of human life before cell division begins.
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Evolutionary psychology emphasizes the role of adaptation and survival in shaping physical traits only.
Evolutionary psychology emphasizes the role of adaptation and survival in shaping physical traits only.
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Identical twins separated at birth have shown significant differences due to environmental factors alone.
Identical twins separated at birth have shown significant differences due to environmental factors alone.
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Evolutionary developmental psychologists believe that a prolonged childhood is insignificant for learning.
Evolutionary developmental psychologists believe that a prolonged childhood is insignificant for learning.
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Down Syndrome is the most common autosomal dominant abnormality.
Down Syndrome is the most common autosomal dominant abnormality.
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Advanced maternal age increases the likelihood of having a child with Down Syndrome.
Advanced maternal age increases the likelihood of having a child with Down Syndrome.
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Klinefelter Syndrome occurs when a male has an extra Y chromosome.
Klinefelter Syndrome occurs when a male has an extra Y chromosome.
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Phenylketonuria (PKU) can be managed with a specialized diet.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) can be managed with a specialized diet.
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Turner Syndrome is caused by a male missing a Y chromosome.
Turner Syndrome is caused by a male missing a Y chromosome.
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Fragile X Syndrome is more common in females than males.
Fragile X Syndrome is more common in females than males.
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Children with Down Syndrome cannot lead independent, healthy lives.
Children with Down Syndrome cannot lead independent, healthy lives.
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XYY Syndrome can cause below-average height in individuals.
XYY Syndrome can cause below-average height in individuals.
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Fetal alcohol syndrome can be completely prevented by drinking small amounts of alcohol during pregnancy.
Fetal alcohol syndrome can be completely prevented by drinking small amounts of alcohol during pregnancy.
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Cocaine use during pregnancy can lead to babies with smaller heads and lower IQ.
Cocaine use during pregnancy can lead to babies with smaller heads and lower IQ.
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Babies born to mothers who smoke marijuana typically have a higher birth weight.
Babies born to mothers who smoke marijuana typically have a higher birth weight.
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Environmental hazards, such as exposure to lead, are a concern for fetal development.
Environmental hazards, such as exposure to lead, are a concern for fetal development.
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If a mother contracts rubella during pregnancy, it poses little risk to her infant.
If a mother contracts rubella during pregnancy, it poses little risk to her infant.
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A baby born by C-section will experience serious issues if the mother has genital herpes.
A baby born by C-section will experience serious issues if the mother has genital herpes.
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The Germinal Period spans from conception until approximately two weeks after fertilization.
The Germinal Period spans from conception until approximately two weeks after fertilization.
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Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT) has the highest success rate among infertility treatments.
Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT) has the highest success rate among infertility treatments.
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During the embryonic period, organ formation, also known as organogenesis, begins.
During the embryonic period, organ formation, also known as organogenesis, begins.
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The trophoblast is the inner layer of cells that develops into the embryo.
The trophoblast is the inner layer of cells that develops into the embryo.
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The fetal period lasts for approximately seven months after conception until the baby is born.
The fetal period lasts for approximately seven months after conception until the baby is born.
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Advanced maternal age has no impact on the rates of infertility.
Advanced maternal age has no impact on the rates of infertility.
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The umbilical cord connects the baby directly to the maternal bloodstream.
The umbilical cord connects the baby directly to the maternal bloodstream.
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Implantation occurs approximately 10 days after the egg is fertilized.
Implantation occurs approximately 10 days after the egg is fertilized.
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The endoderm is the outermost layer of cells that forms the skin and nervous system.
The endoderm is the outermost layer of cells that forms the skin and nervous system.
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Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after six months of regular intercourse.
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after six months of regular intercourse.
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The film 'Three Identical Strangers' explores the influence of nurture over nature in human development.
The film 'Three Identical Strangers' explores the influence of nurture over nature in human development.
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Natural selection is a process that supports the adaptation and survival of individuals with advantageous traits.
Natural selection is a process that supports the adaptation and survival of individuals with advantageous traits.
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The zygote is formed when the male and female gametes combine, representing the commencement of human development.
The zygote is formed when the male and female gametes combine, representing the commencement of human development.
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Evolutionary developmental psychologists regard the juvenile period as unimportant for learning.
Evolutionary developmental psychologists regard the juvenile period as unimportant for learning.
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Genes have a minimal role in determining how a child develops.
Genes have a minimal role in determining how a child develops.
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Identical twins raised apart demonstrate a variety of differences solely due to their genetic makeup.
Identical twins raised apart demonstrate a variety of differences solely due to their genetic makeup.
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The second stage of labor typically lasts around 2 hours.
The second stage of labor typically lasts around 2 hours.
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Doulas are trained professionals who assist women throughout their entire pregnancy and postnatal period.
Doulas are trained professionals who assist women throughout their entire pregnancy and postnatal period.
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Oxytocics are natural hormones used to alleviate pain during labor.
Oxytocics are natural hormones used to alleviate pain during labor.
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C-sections can be performed if the baby is in distress or the mother has had a previous C-section.
C-sections can be performed if the baby is in distress or the mother has had a previous C-section.
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An extremely low birth weight infant weighs less than 3.5 pounds.
An extremely low birth weight infant weighs less than 3.5 pounds.
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The Bradley Method is a method that primarily involves the father in the role of labor coach.
The Bradley Method is a method that primarily involves the father in the role of labor coach.
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A typical pregnancy lasts approximately 36 weeks.
A typical pregnancy lasts approximately 36 weeks.
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Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is caused by drinking alcohol during pregnancy.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is caused by drinking alcohol during pregnancy.
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The three trimesters of pregnancy correspond directly to the three prenatal periods.
The three trimesters of pregnancy correspond directly to the three prenatal periods.
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Teratogens can only be substances that a mother ingests.
Teratogens can only be substances that a mother ingests.
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All psychological drugs have no effect on fetal development.
All psychological drugs have no effect on fetal development.
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Pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue and nausea are more pronounced in the second trimester.
Pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue and nausea are more pronounced in the second trimester.
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Sickle-cell anemia is a dominant genetic disorder that affects mainly the African American population.
Sickle-cell anemia is a dominant genetic disorder that affects mainly the African American population.
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A woman should be careful about her diet and lifestyle from the moment she first suspects pregnancy.
A woman should be careful about her diet and lifestyle from the moment she first suspects pregnancy.
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The germinal period occurs after the fetal period.
The germinal period occurs after the fetal period.
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Amniocentesis involves taking a sample of blood from the mother for genetic testing.
Amniocentesis involves taking a sample of blood from the mother for genetic testing.
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Ultrasounds can provide non-invasive information about the number of fetuses and the baby's sex.
Ultrasounds can provide non-invasive information about the number of fetuses and the baby's sex.
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Caffeine in moderation has no negative impact on fetal development.
Caffeine in moderation has no negative impact on fetal development.
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Chorionic villi sampling poses a high risk of limb deformity as a complication.
Chorionic villi sampling poses a high risk of limb deformity as a complication.
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Emotional changes are a common symptom experienced during pregnancy.
Emotional changes are a common symptom experienced during pregnancy.
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Maternal blood screening, or the AFP test, is an invasive procedure with significant risks to the fetus.
Maternal blood screening, or the AFP test, is an invasive procedure with significant risks to the fetus.
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Amniocentesis provides a lot of accurate information regarding chromosomal and genetic conditions but has a risk of miscarriage.
Amniocentesis provides a lot of accurate information regarding chromosomal and genetic conditions but has a risk of miscarriage.
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Microencephaly is a condition that can be detected through a standard ultrasound test.
Microencephaly is a condition that can be detected through a standard ultrasound test.
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A triple screen test is invasive and involves sampling the amniotic fluid.
A triple screen test is invasive and involves sampling the amniotic fluid.
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Match the substances with their associated risks during pregnancy:
Match the substances with their associated risks during pregnancy:
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Match the medical conditions to their potential effects on infants:
Match the medical conditions to their potential effects on infants:
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Match the environmental hazards with their potential sources:
Match the environmental hazards with their potential sources:
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Match the type of drug with its specific infant complications:
Match the type of drug with its specific infant complications:
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Match the teratogen with its main effect on fetal development:
Match the teratogen with its main effect on fetal development:
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Match the prenatal tests with their corresponding descriptions:
Match the prenatal tests with their corresponding descriptions:
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Match the genetic disorders with their relevant characteristics:
Match the genetic disorders with their relevant characteristics:
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Match the procedure with its associated risk or characteristic:
Match the procedure with its associated risk or characteristic:
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Match the testing modalities with their timing during pregnancy:
Match the testing modalities with their timing during pregnancy:
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Match the following conditions with their potential outcomes:
Match the following conditions with their potential outcomes:
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Match the following prenatal development stages with their descriptions:
Match the following prenatal development stages with their descriptions:
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Match the following genetic conditions with their characteristics:
Match the following genetic conditions with their characteristics:
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Match the following prenatal testing methods with their purposes:
Match the following prenatal testing methods with their purposes:
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Match the following postnatal conditions with their descriptions:
Match the following postnatal conditions with their descriptions:
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Match the following environmental hazards with their effects on prenatal development:
Match the following environmental hazards with their effects on prenatal development:
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Study Notes
Genetics and Human Development
- Studying identical twins separated at birth reveals striking similarities, suggesting strong genetic influences on development.
- The Minnesota Twin Family Study concluded that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to human development.
- Evolutionary psychology emphasizes adaptation and “survival of the fittest” as drivers of human behavior.
- Natural selection favors traits enhancing survival and reproduction.
- Evolutionary developmental psychology highlights the importance of childhood learning for adult preparedness.
Reproduction and Genetic Abnormalities
- Reproduction begins with fertilization of the female gamete (ovum) by the male gamete (sperm), forming the zygote.
- The zygote contains 23 pairs of chromosomes.
- Down syndrome is a condition caused by an extra chromosome on the 21st pair, often resulting in intellectual disability.
- Sickle-cell anemia is a blood disorder primarily affecting African Americans, caused by a recessive gene and limiting oxygen supply.
Prenatal Testing for Genetic Abnormalities
- Ultrasound, a non-invasive test utilizing sound waves, can detect fetal abnormalities, including microencephaly.
- Chorionic villi sampling, performed between 10th and 12th weeks, analyzes placental tissue for chromosomal or genetic abnormalities.
- Amniocentesis, an invasive procedure, samples amniotic fluid for chromosomal and metabolic disorders.
- Maternal blood screening (AFP test), a non-invasive method, identifies pregnancies at risk for birth defects like spina bifida.
Pregnancy Concerns
- Maternal obesity can increase risks like hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory complications.
- Adequate nutrition during pregnancy is vital, including increased protein, iron, and vitamins.
- Teratogens, substances harmful to fetal development, include drugs, alcohol, and certain infections.
- Maternal age and father's age can also influence fetal health.
- Stress and emotional states during pregnancy can impact fetal development.
Birth
- Birth is a transformative event with three stages.
- The first stage lasts approximately 12 to 24 hours, with contractions increasing in frequency as the cervix dilates.
- Braxton Hicks contractions are tightening in the abdomen that prepare the uterus for labor.
- Nesting behavior and bursts of energy are common as a woman approaches her due date.
Cross-Cultural Childbirth Practices
- Many cultures have unique childbirth traditions, demonstrating diverse perspectives on the process.
- Practices range from vocal suppression in West Africa to the use of cow dung in East Africa
- Cultural practices often involve symbolic rituals and beliefs surrounding fertility and safety.
After Birth
- The postpartum period involves physical and psychological adjustments for both mothers and fathers.
- Low-birth-weight infants face developmental challenges but can thrive with proper care.
- Three measures of neonatal health include Apgar score, gestation period, and birth weight.
The Role of Genetics
- Genetics plays a crucial role in child development.
- Evolutionary psychology emphasizes adaptation, reproduction, and "survival of the fittest" in shaping behavior.
- Evolutionary developmental psychologists believe that an extended "juvenile" period for learning information is crucial.
- What is learned in childhood prepares children for adulthood.
Concerns in Conception
- A chromosomal abnormality occurs when a gamete does not have a normal set of 23 chromosomes.
- Down Syndrome is the most common chromosomal abnormality; it occurs when an extra chromosome causes mild to severe cognitive and physical delays.
- Advanced maternal age increases the likelihood of a child with Down Syndrome.
- Other common chromosomal conditions include Klinefelter Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Turner Syndrome, and XYY Syndrome.
- Gene-linked abnormalities are caused by harmful genes.
- Phenylketonuria (PKU) occurs when an individual cannot properly metabolize an amino acid; a special diet can result in average intelligence and a normal life span.
- Infertility is an inability to conceive after 12 months of regular intercourse; rates have risen due to advanced maternal age.
- Strategies to deal with infertility include in vitro fertilization (IVF), gamete intrafallopian transfer (GITF), and zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT).
The Germinal Period
- The germinal period is the first two weeks after conception.
- The zygote is created and cells continue to divide.
- At approximately 10 days after conception, the zygote attaches to the uterine wall (implantation).
- The blastocyst is an inner layer of cells that later develops into the embryo.
- The trophoblast is the outer layer of cells that provides nutrition and support for the embryo.
The Embryonic Period
- The embryonic period occurs two to eight weeks after conception.
- Organogenesis (organ formation) begins.
- The embryo has three layers of cells: endoderm, ectoderm, and mesoderm.
- The embryo has a complex life support system: placenta, umbilical cord, and amnion.
The Fetal Period
- The fetal period occurs two months after conception and lasts for approximately seven months until the baby is born.
- The largest prenatal weight gains occur during this period.
- Fetal alcohol syndrome can cause abnormal facial features, growth deficiency, and problems with the central nervous system.
- Smoking during pregnancy can lead to low birth-weight infants who often struggle with lung development.
- Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, and heroin are all teratogens that pose a great risk to the fetus.
Environmental Hazards
- Environmental hazards pose a great risk to the fetus; exposure to lead and radiation, certain pesticides, petrochemicals, toxic waste, and manufactured chemicals are all cause for concern.
Medical Conditions
- Rubella can have a negative impact on a developing fetus, including deafness, heart defects, cataracts, intellectual disabilities, liver and spleen damage, low birthweight, and skin rash.
- Syphilis can lead to a baby with cognitive delays.
- Genital herpes can cause blindness or death during vaginal birth.
- Mothers should share their sexual history with their OB/GYN to help protect their unborn baby.
Birth
- The first stage of labor is the longest, lasting approximately 6 to 14 hours.
- The second stage lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour; the baby is born.
- The third stage lasts only minutes; the placenta, umbilical cord, and other membranes are detached and expelled.
- Doulas are professionals trained in childbirth who assist a woman before, during, and after her pregnancy.
- Midwives are medically trained professionals who assist the mother prenatally and throughout the entire birthing process.
- Medications commonly used during labor: analgesics, anesthesia, and oxytocics.
- Natural childbirth tends to reduce a mother’s pain by decreasing her fear.
- Prepared childbirth uses a special breathing technique in the final stage of labor.
- The Lamaze method is a well-known method that educates women about their bodies and uses breathing/relaxation techniques to manage pain.
- C–sections are procedures that are performed when the baby is breech, the head is too large, vaginal bleeding has occurred, the baby is in distress, the mother is in distress, the mother has an STD, the mother has had a prior c-section, or in the case of multiple births.
- The most common method that places the father in the role of labor coach is the Bradley Method.
After Birth
- A low birth weight infant weighs less than 5.5 pounds.
- An extremely low birth weight infant weighs less than 2 pounds.
- A preterm baby is born at least three weeks early.
The Impact of Genes on Development
- Nature vs Nurture: The 2018 film "Three Identical Strangers" explores the influence of genetics and environment on the development of triplets separated at birth.
- Genes and Environment: The Minnesota study of identical twins suggests a strong genetic influence on development, but also highlights the need for further research on both genetic and environmental factors.
- Evolutionary Psychology: Evolutionary psychology emphasizes adaptation, reproduction, and "survival of the fittest" in shaping human behavior, including decision-making, aggression, and mating patterns.
Conception and Prenatal Development
- Conception: Reproduction starts with the fertilization of the female gamete (ovum) by the male gamete (sperm), forming a zygote containing 23 pairs of chromosomes.
- Chromosomal Abnormalities: Genetic and chromosomal abnormalities can impact a child's development, requiring prenatal tests to identify potential risks.
Sickle-Cell Anemia
- Genetic Cause: Sickle-cell anemia is a blood disorder caused by a recessive gene, primarily affecting the African American population.
- Symptoms and Treatment: It restricts the body's oxygen supply, leading to potential heart and kidney failure, joint swelling, and limited treatment options.
Prenatal Testing
- Ultrasound: A non-invasive test using high-frequency sound waves to create images of the fetus, detecting abnormalities like microencephaly and sex determination.
- Chorionic Villi Sampling: An invasive test performed between weeks 10-12 of pregnancy, analyzing a sample of the placenta for chromosomal or genetic abnormalities, with potential risks of limb deformity and false positives.
- Amniocentesis: An invasive test involving taking a sample of amniotic fluid to detect chromosomal and metabolic disorders; it carries a small risk of miscarriage but provides accurate information.
- Maternal Blood Screening (AFP Test): Identifies pregnancies with an elevated risk of birth defects like spina bifida, through non-invasive analysis of three substances in the mother's blood.
Fetal Development Stages
- Germinal Period: Begins with fertilization and lasts approximately two weeks, the zygote divides repeatedly and implants in the uterine wall.
- Embryonic Period: Lasts from week 2 through week 8, major organs and body systems start to develop; any damage during this period can severely affect the fetus.
- Fetal Period: Starts in week 8 and continues until birth, characterized by rapid growth, the fetus gains weight and becomes more active, and the brain develops rapidly.
Pregnancy
- Duration: A typical pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, counted from the first day of the woman's last menstrual period.
- Trimesters: Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each having distinct physical and emotional changes.
Pregnancy Concerns
- Teratogens: Substances that can cause birth defects, influencing severity based on dose, genetic susceptibility, and exposure timing.
- Alcohol: Alcohol abuse during pregnancy can cause Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), leading to cognitive and physical delays.
Birth Process
-
Stages:
- First Stage: Longest stage, involving dilation of the cervix and contractions.
- Second Stage: Baby descends through the cervix and birth canal, lasting 45 minutes to an hour.
- Third Stage: Shortest stage, lasting only minutes, involving expulsion of the placenta and other membranes.
Labor Support and Methods
- Doulas: Professionals trained to provide support to mothers before, during, and after pregnancy, reducing pain, anxiety, and depression.
- Midwives: Medically trained professionals assisting mothers prenatally and throughout the birthing process.
- Medications: Analgesics, anesthesia, and oxytocics are commonly used to manage pain and stimulate contractions.
- Natural Childbirth: Minimizes pain through relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and education about the birthing process.
- Prepared Childbirth: Similar to natural childbirth, but emphasizes specific breathing techniques in the final stage of labor, with the Lamaze method being the most well-known.
- Cesarean Section (C-section): Surgical procedure to deliver babies when vaginal birth is not possible.
After Birth
- Low Birth Weight: Infants weighing less than 5.5 pounds.
- Extremely Low Birth Weight: Infants weighing less than 2 pounds.
- Preterm Baby: A baby born at least three weeks early.
- Cross-Cultural Childbirth Practices: Various cultures around the world have unique traditions and practices surrounding childbirth, highlighting cultural beliefs and practices.
The Role of Genetics
- Identical twins separated at birth can demonstrate striking similarities, highlighting the influence of genetics on development.
- The Minnesota Twin Family Study (1979-1999) studied identical and fraternal twins separated at an early age to understand the impact of nature (genes) vs. nurture (environment).
- Sickle-cell anemia, a blood disorder, occurs mainly in the African American population due to a recessive gene.
- Sickle-cell anemia limits the body's oxygen supply, potentially causing heart and kidney failure, as well as joint swelling.
Prenatal Testing for Genetic Abnormalities
- Ultrasound is a non-invasive prenatal test using high-frequency sound waves to create images of the fetus.
- It can detect abnormalities like microencephaly (abnormally small brain), determine the number of fetuses, and provide clues to the baby's sex.
- Chorionic villi sampling, performed between the 10th and 12th weeks, involves taking a sample of the placenta to test for chromosomal or genetic abnormalities.
- Amniocentesis, an invasive procedure, involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid to test for chromosomal and metabolic disorders.
- Maternal blood screening (AFP test) identifies pregnancies at risk for birth defects like spina bifida.
- Triple screen analyzes three substances in the mother's blood, often followed by an ultrasound if abnormalities are detected.
Environmental Hazards
- Fathers' exposure to lead, radiation, pesticides, petrochemicals, toxic waste, and manufactured chemicals can pose risks to the fetus.
Medical Conditions
- Rubella, a preventable disease, can cause deafness, heart defects, cataracts, intellectual disabilities, and a range of other complications in infants if contracted during pregnancy.
- Syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease, can lead to cognitive delays in children, emphasizing the importance of sharing sexual history with healthcare providers.
- Genital Herpes, another sexually transmitted disease, presents risks during vaginal birth, potentially causing blindness or death in infants.
Stages of Birth
- First stage: Begins with regular contractions and ends with the cervix dilating to 10 centimeters.
- Second stage: Characterized by strong contractions and the baby's passage through the cervix and birth canal, lasting approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
- Third stage: Involves the detachment and expulsion of the placenta, umbilical cord, and other membranes, typically lasting only minutes.
Supporting Mothers During Birth
- Doulas: Professionals trained in childbirth who assist mothers before, during, and after pregnancy.
- Midwives: Medically trained professionals who provide support to the mother throughout the prenatal and birthing process.
- Medications: Analgesics for pain relief, Anesthesia for pain blockage, Oxytocics to stimulate contractions and accelerate labor.
- Natural childbirth: Emphasizes techniques like relaxation and breathing exercises to reduce pain.
- Prepared childbirth: Incorporates breathing techniques and education about the birth process to manage pain.
C-section
- A surgical procedure to deliver the baby through an incision in the abdomen.
- C-sections are performed in cases of breech presentation, large head, vaginal bleeding, fetal distress, maternal distress, STDs, previous C-sections, and multiple births.
After Birth
- Low birth weight infants weigh less than 5.5 pounds, while extremely low birth weight infants weigh less than 2 pounds.
- Preterm babies are born at least three weeks early, often struggling with lung development.
- Kangaroo care, involving skin-to-skin contact, is crucial for preterm infants, promoting better sleep, weight gain, and reduced crying.
- The Apgar Scale assesses a newborn's health at 1 and 5 minutes after birth, evaluating skin color, pulse rate, reflexes, activity, and respiratory effort.
- The Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale, conducted within 24 to 36 hours, tests neurological development, reflexes, and reactions to people.
Postpartum Period
- Lasts approximately six weeks, encompassing the mother's physical and psychological adjustment after childbirth.
- Involution is the process of the uterus returning to its pre-pregnancy size.
- Postpartum depression involves feelings of sadness, anxiety, despair, changes in appetite, crying spells, and sleep difficulties.
- Rooming in, where the newborn stays in the hospital room with the parents, encourages bonding.
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This quiz explores the impact of genetics and environmental factors on human development, highlighting significant studies like the Minnesota Twin Family Study. It also covers reproduction, genetic disorders such as Down syndrome and sickle-cell anemia, and the role of evolutionary psychology in understanding human behavior.
