MSW Human Development and Behavior 4

Question 1

In family systems theory, 'triangulation' most accurately refers to:

Accepted Answer

The process of a third party being drawn into a dyadic conflict to reduce tension

Answer

Triangulation occurs when a third person (often a child) is pulled into a two-person conflict to diffuse anxiety, often burdening the third party.

Question 2

Which term describes the phenomenon where children raised together in the same family environment have markedly different personalities, partly due to different peer groups and individual experiences?

Accepted Answer

Non-shared environment effects

Answer

Non-shared environmental influences—unique experiences that differ between siblings—account for much of the personality variation among children in the same family.

Question 3

A social worker is assessing a client with a history of significant early neglect who shows limited empathy and poor impulse control. These deficits are most closely linked to disruption in:

Accepted Answer

Early attachment and right-brain development

Answer

Early neglect disrupts right-hemisphere development and secure attachment, impairing emotion regulation, empathy, and impulse control.

Question 4

According to Diana Baumrind's parenting styles research, which style is associated with the best outcomes for children's social competence and academic achievement?

Accepted Answer

Authoritative parenting

Answer

Authoritative parenting—high warmth combined with consistent boundaries and reasoning—is linked to the best developmental outcomes across multiple domains.

Question 5

The 'age of viability' in prenatal development refers to the gestational age at which:

Accepted Answer

The fetus can potentially survive outside the womb with medical support

Answer

The age of viability is approximately 22–24 weeks gestation, when the lungs and other systems are sufficiently developed to support survival with medical intervention.

MSW - Master of Social Work Practice Test

MSW - Master of Social Work Practice Test

MSW Human Development and Behavior 4