CPT Child Development & Learning Theories 3

Question 1

In operant conditioning, what is a 'negative reinforcement'?

Accepted Answer

Removing an unpleasant stimulus to increase a desired behavior

Answer

Negative reinforcement strengthens a behavior by removing or avoiding something unpleasant, which encourages the child to repeat the behavior.

Question 2

Which attachment style describes a child who is distressed when separated from a caregiver but is not easily comforted upon reunion?

Accepted Answer

Anxious-ambivalent attachment

Answer

Anxious-ambivalent (resistant) attachment features high distress at separation and difficulty being soothed upon reunion, showing conflicting feelings toward the caregiver.

Question 3

What does Erikson's stage 'Initiative vs. Guilt' (ages 3–6) primarily involve for preschool children?

Accepted Answer

Exploring independence and taking on purposeful activities

Answer

During the Initiative vs. Guilt stage, children assert themselves through play and purposeful activities; guilt arises when they feel their initiative is inappropriate.

Question 4

Which approach to early childhood education emphasizes child-led exploration, teacher as observer, and learning through prepared environments with natural materials?

Accepted Answer

Montessori method

Answer

The Montessori method uses specially prepared environments where children self-direct learning and teachers observe rather than lecture.

Question 5

What does the term 'accommodation' mean in Piaget's theory?

Accepted Answer

Modifying an existing schema to fit new information

Answer

Accommodation occurs when a new experience cannot fit an existing schema, causing the child to alter or create a schema to incorporate it.

(CPT) Certified Preschool Teacher Practice Test

(CPT) Certified Preschool Teacher Practice Test

CPT Child Development & Learning Theories 3