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Human Development and Behavior Flashcards

7 cards from real MSW practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Human Development and Behavior flashcards as text

  1. A client who experienced chronic childhood abuse shows difficulty regulating emotions and forming stable relationships. This pattern is most consistent with:

    Answer: Complex developmental trauma (complex PTSD)

    Complex PTSD arises from prolonged, repeated trauma and is characterized by emotional dysregulation, relational difficulties, and negative self-concept.

  2. According to Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, the relationship between a child's school and their parents' workplace is an example of:

    Answer: Exosystem influences

    The exosystem includes settings that indirectly affect the child, such as a parent's workplace, even though the child is not directly involved.

  3. Which developmental theorist emphasized the role of 'basic trust' established in infancy as the foundation for all later psychosocial development?

    Answer: Erik Erikson

    Erikson's first stage, Trust vs. Mistrust (birth to 18 months), establishes whether infants develop a basic sense of safety and trust in caregivers.

  4. A social worker is helping a 16-year-old explore questions of 'Who am I?' and 'What do I believe in?' According to Erikson, this adolescent is navigating:

    Answer: Identity vs. Role Confusion

    Erikson's fifth stage (Identity vs. Role Confusion) occurs during adolescence, when individuals explore and commit to a personal identity.

  5. The concept of 'epigenetics' in human development refers to:

    Answer: Environmental factors that alter gene expression without changing DNA sequence

    Epigenetics involves changes in gene expression caused by environmental factors—such as stress or nutrition—without altering the underlying DNA sequence.

  6. Which of the following best describes 'resilience' as used in social work practice?

    Answer: The ability to adapt positively despite significant adversity or risk

    Resilience is the capacity for positive adaptation in the context of significant adversity and is influenced by individual, family, and community protective factors.

  7. According to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, which need must generally be met before an individual can focus on esteem needs?

    Answer: Love and belonging needs

    In Maslow's hierarchy, love and belonging (social needs) precede esteem needs, as humans must feel connected before pursuing status and achievement.