AAMC MCAT Psychological and Social Foundations

Question 1

Which stage of Erikson's psychosocial development involves 'trust vs. mistrust'?

Accepted Answer

Infancy (0–18 months)

Answer

Erikson's first stage centers on whether caregivers reliably meet the infant's needs, establishing a foundational sense of trust or mistrust.

Question 2

What is the key difference between classical and operant conditioning?

Accepted Answer

Classical pairs stimuli to produce reflexive responses; operant uses consequences to shape voluntary behavior

Answer

Classical conditioning (Pavlov) pairs a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus; operant conditioning (Skinner) uses reinforcement and punishment to modify voluntary behavior.

Question 3

In Maslow's hierarchy, which need must be satisfied before esteem needs?

Accepted Answer

Love and belonging needs

Answer

Maslow's hierarchy places social belonging below esteem; one must feel connected and accepted before seeking achievement or recognition.

Question 4

What is the fundamental attribution error?

Accepted Answer

Overattributing others' behavior to their personality while ignoring situational factors

Answer

The fundamental attribution error describes our tendency to explain others' actions via character while ignoring the situational context they faced.

Question 5

Which neurotransmitter is most associated with reward pathways and motivation?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Dopamine is the key neurotransmitter in the mesolimbic reward pathway, reinforcing pleasurable behaviors and motivating goal-directed action.

AAMC - Association of American Medical Colleges Practice Test

AAMC - Association of American Medical Colleges Practice Test

AAMC MCAT Psychological and Social Foundations