Psychology Trivia Questions And Answers
1.
What is the ego defense mechanism whereby threatening or painful thoughts are excluded from awareness?
Answer:
Repression
Explanation:
Repression is a defense mechanism that involves pushing threatening or painful thoughts, memories, or feelings out of conscious awareness. This process helps individuals avoid dealing with uncomfortable emotions or experiences by keeping them buried in the unconscious mind. By repressing these thoughts, individuals can protect themselves from experiencing the full impact of the distressing content, allowing them to function more effectively in their daily lives.
2.
What is the exact repetition of phrases spoken by other people called?
Answer:
Echolalia
Explanation:
Echolalia is the exact repetition of phrases spoken by other people. This can be a symptom of certain neurological or developmental disorders, where the individual involuntarily repeats words or phrases they hear. It is often seen in individuals with autism spectrum disorder or certain types of dementia.
3.
The ancient operation of trephination required the drilling or cutting of what?
Answer:
Skull
Explanation:
Trephination was an ancient surgical procedure that involved drilling or cutting a hole into the skull. This practice was believed to relieve pressure, treat head injuries, or even release evil spirits. By creating an opening in the skull, trephination was thought to allow negative energy or illness to escape, promoting healing and well-being.
4.
What real-life sufferer from schizophrenia is depicted in the movie "A Beautiful Mind"?
Answer:
John Nash
Explanation:
John Nash is the real-life sufferer from schizophrenia depicted in the movie "A Beautiful Mind". The film portrays his struggles with the mental illness while also showcasing his remarkable academic achievements in the field of mathematics. Nash's story sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with schizophrenia and highlights the importance of support and treatment in managing the condition.
5.
What discredited science studied skull shape and bumps to predict personality traits?
Answer:
Phrenology
Explanation:
Phrenology was a pseudoscience popular in the 19th century that claimed personality traits could be determined by studying the shape and bumps on a person's skull. However, phrenology has been widely discredited as it lacks scientific evidence and has been debunked as a valid method of predicting personality traits.
6.
What is a xenophobe fearful of?
Answer:
Strangers
Explanation:
A xenophobe is fearful of strangers because they have a strong aversion to individuals who are different from them in terms of nationality, ethnicity, or culture. This fear often stems from a lack of understanding or familiarity with people who are perceived as foreign or unfamiliar, leading to feelings of anxiety, hostility, or prejudice towards them.
7.
Which personality disorder is characterized by instability, irritability, impulsive anger, and external mood shifts?
Answer:
Borderline
Explanation:
Borderline personality disorder is characterized by instability in mood, behavior, self-image, and relationships. People with this disorder often experience intense emotions, have difficulty regulating their emotions, and may engage in impulsive and risky behaviors. This can lead to frequent mood swings, irritability, and impulsive anger outbursts. Additionally, individuals with borderline personality disorder may struggle with maintaining stable relationships and have a distorted sense of self.
8.
Per the DSM-IV, diagnosis of schizophrenia can be made after symptoms have continued for how long?
Answer:
6 Months
Explanation:
The DSM-IV criteria for diagnosing schizophrenia requires that symptoms persist for at least 6 months. This duration is considered necessary to differentiate schizophrenia from other mental health conditions and to ensure that the symptoms are not temporary or transient. By requiring symptoms to be present for this length of time, clinicians can more accurately diagnose and treat individuals with schizophrenia.
9.
John Watson and Rosalie Rayner's Little Albert experiments proved that what can be conditioned?
Answer:
Fear
Explanation:
John Watson and Rosalie Rayner's Little Albert experiments demonstrated that fear can be conditioned through classical conditioning. This groundbreaking study showed that a previously neutral stimulus (in this case, a white rat) could become associated with fear through pairing with a loud, startling noise. This led to Little Albert developing a fear response not only to the rat but to similar objects as well, illustrating the power of conditioning in shaping behavior and emotions.
10.
John Langdon-Down, who first identified Down's Syndrome, was a physician from which country?
Answer:
United Kingdom
Explanation:
John Langdon-Down, the physician who first identified Down's Syndrome, was from the United Kingdom. This is because he was born and educated in England, and spent the majority of his career working in London. His groundbreaking work in identifying and describing the characteristics of Down's Syndrome patients was conducted within the healthcare system of the United Kingdom.
11.
Many antidepressants change the activity of which neurotransmitter?
Answer:
Norephinephrine
Explanation:
Many antidepressants change the activity of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, stress response, and attention. By altering the levels of norepinephrine in the brain, these medications can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mental well-being.
12.
People with what personality style are said to be more relaxed and less aggressive?
Answer:
Type B
Explanation:
People with a Type B personality style are often characterized as being more relaxed, patient, and less aggressive compared to individuals with a Type A personality. They tend to be easy-going, adaptable, and able to handle stress in a more laid-back manner. This personality type is associated with a lower risk of heart disease and other health issues related to stress, as they are less likely to feel constantly rushed or competitive.
13.
Phineas Gage's personality was severely altered after an iron rod pierced what part of his brain?
Answer:
Frontal Lobe
Explanation:
The frontal lobe is responsible for regulating personality, decision-making, and social behavior. When Phineas Gage's frontal lobe was damaged by an iron rod, it resulted in significant personality changes, including increased impulsivity, aggression, and a lack of inhibition. This demonstrates the critical role of the frontal lobe in governing aspects of personality and behavior.
14.
A study of the psychological effects of imprisonment was conducted in 1971 at what university?
Answer:
Stanford
Explanation:
The study of the psychological effects of imprisonment conducted in 1971 was known as the Stanford Prison Experiment, which took place at Stanford University. This infamous study aimed to investigate the psychological effects of becoming a prisoner or prison guard and highlighted the power dynamics and ethical concerns within such roles.
15.
What is the name of the group of anti-anxiety drugs that includes Valium and Xanax?
Answer:
Benzodiazepines
Explanation:
Benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs known for their sedative and calming effects on the central nervous system. Valium and Xanax are both popular examples of benzodiazepines commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and other conditions. These drugs work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
16.
What therapy technique points out irrational assumptions and suggests new ones?
Answer:
Rational-Emotive Therapy
Explanation:
Rational-Emotive Therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on identifying and challenging irrational beliefs and assumptions that contribute to emotional distress. By pointing out these irrational assumptions and suggesting new, more rational ones, this therapy technique aims to help individuals change their thought patterns and improve their emotional well-being. Through this process, individuals can develop healthier ways of thinking and responding to challenging situations.
17.
Who founded the first formal laboratory of Psychology at the University of Leipzig in 1879?
Answer:
Wilhelm Wundt
Explanation:
Wilhelm Wundt is credited with founding the first formal laboratory of Psychology at the University of Leipzig in 1879. Wundt is often referred to as the father of experimental psychology for his pioneering work in establishing psychology as a separate scientific discipline. His laboratory focused on studying human consciousness and perception through experimental methods, laying the foundation for modern psychology as we know it today.
18.
Who is considered the founder of Gestalt Psychology?
Answer:
Max Wertheimer
Explanation:
Max Wertheimer is considered the founder of Gestalt Psychology due to his groundbreaking work in the early 20th century, particularly his research on perception and the principles of Gestalt psychology. Wertheimer, along with his colleagues Kurt Koffka and Wolfgang Köhler, emphasized the importance of studying the mind as a whole rather than breaking it down into separate parts. Their work laid the foundation for the Gestalt principles of perception, which have had a significant influence on psychology and cognitive science.
19.
Whose works include "Client-Centered Therapy", and "On Becoming a Person"?
Answer:
Carl Rogers
Explanation:
Carl Rogers is the correct answer because he is a renowned psychologist known for his contributions to humanistic psychology. His works, "Client-Centered Therapy" and "On Becoming a Person", are considered seminal texts in the field of psychology and have had a significant impact on the practice of therapy and counseling. Rogers' emphasis on empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness in therapeutic relationships revolutionized the way mental health professionals interact with their clients.
20.
Whose experiments with inkblots in 1911 led to one of the most widely-used projective tests?
Answer:
Rorschach
Explanation:
Hermann Rorschach's experiments with inkblots in 1911 resulted in the creation of the Rorschach Inkblot Test, which has become one of the most widely-used projective tests in psychology. This test is used to assess an individual's personality characteristics and emotional functioning based on their interpretations of ambiguous inkblot images.
21.
Whose book "Baby and Child Care" sold over 50 million copies in their lifetime?
Answer:
Dr. Spock
Explanation:
Dr. Spock's book "Baby and Child Care" sold over 50 million copies in his lifetime, making him one of the most influential pediatricians in history. His book revolutionized parenting practices and became a go-to guide for generations of parents seeking advice on child-rearing.
22.
What psychological theory describes the ego states of the critical and nurturing parent?
Answer:
Transactional Analysis
Explanation:
Transactional Analysis is a psychological theory that describes the ego states of the critical and nurturing parent. This theory focuses on how individuals interact with one another and how past experiences influence their behavior. In Transactional Analysis, the critical parent ego state represents the internalized voice of authority figures, while the nurturing parent ego state represents a caring and supportive attitude. By understanding these ego states, individuals can gain insight into their own behaviors and relationships with others.
23.
Which of the following personality disorders is found in the DSM-III but was taken out of the DSM-IV?
Answer:
Passive/Aggressive
Explanation:
Passive/Aggressive personality disorder was included in the DSM-III but was removed in the DSM-IV due to its overlap with other personality disorders and lack of clear diagnostic criteria. The characteristics of this disorder, such as indirect expression of hostility and resistance to demands, were deemed better explained by other existing personality disorders in the DSM-IV.
24.
A therapist instructs the client to engage in the behavior or symptom he or she seeks relief from. This is an example of?
Answer:
Paradoxical Intervention
Explanation:
Paradoxical intervention involves prescribing the symptom or behavior a client seeks relief from, as a way to bring about change or insight. By instructing the client to engage in the behavior or symptom, the therapist is using a paradoxical approach to challenge the client's beliefs and assumptions, ultimately leading to a shift in perspective or behavior. This technique can help clients confront their issues in a new way and break free from negative patterns.
25.
Which technique is most true in person centered therapy?
Answer:
Techniques Therapists Use Are Less Important Than His/Her Attitudes
Explanation:
In person-centered therapy, the focus is on the therapist's attitudes towards the client rather than specific techniques used. The therapist's genuine empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence are considered more important in creating a supportive and healing therapeutic relationship than any specific intervention or technique. This approach values the therapist's ability to truly understand and empathize with the client's experience, creating a safe space for the client to explore and grow.
26.
Existential Therapy places emphasis on what?
Answer:
The Quality Of The Client/Therapist Relationship
Explanation:
Existential Therapy places emphasis on the quality of the client/therapist relationship because it believes that the therapeutic alliance is essential for fostering a safe and trusting environment where clients can explore their existential concerns and find meaning in their lives. This emphasis allows clients to feel understood, supported, and validated, leading to deeper self-exploration and personal growth.
27.
In 1949 an article in the New York Times deemed which procedure a near miracle?
Answer:
Lobotomy
Explanation:
The article in the New York Times in 1949 deemed lobotomy a near miracle due to the perceived effectiveness of the procedure in treating various mental health conditions at the time. Lobotomy was seen as a groundbreaking treatment for conditions such as schizophrenia and severe depression, leading to the belief that it could significantly improve the lives of patients who had previously been considered untreatable.
28.
In which year was electroshock therapy first used on a human patient?
Answer:
1938
Explanation:
Electroshock therapy was first used on a human patient in 1938. This marked the beginning of a controversial treatment method that involved passing electric currents through the brain to induce seizures, with the intention of treating various mental illnesses. The discovery of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) revolutionized the field of psychiatry and was initially met with both skepticism and intrigue due to its potential effectiveness in treating severe cases of depression, mania, and schizophrenia.
29.
In which defense mechanism does a person adopt the opposite behavior of the impulses they fear to face?
Answer:
Reaction Formation
Explanation:
Reaction Formation is a defense mechanism where an individual acts in a way that is opposite to their true feelings or impulses. This is done to protect themselves from the anxiety or discomfort caused by acknowledging those impulses. By adopting behaviors that are the opposite of their feared impulses, individuals can create a false sense of security and control over their emotions. This defense mechanism helps individuals cope with conflicting emotions and maintain a sense of psychological balance.
30.
Pavlov's famous experiment with dogs originally set out to discover secrets of what?
Answer:
The Digestive System
Explanation:
Pavlov's famous experiment with dogs originally set out to discover secrets of the digestive system by studying the dogs' salivary response to food. Through his experiments, Pavlov discovered the concept of classical conditioning, where a neutral stimulus (such as a bell) could elicit a learned response (salivation) after being paired with a natural stimulus (food). This research revolutionized the understanding of how organisms learn and respond to environmental cues.
31.
The American Psychological Association was founded in what year?
Answer:
1892
Explanation:
The American Psychological Association was founded in 1892, making it the correct answer to the question.
32.
What condition is electroconvulsive therapy most often used to treat?
Answer:
Depression
Explanation:
Electroconvulsive therapy is most often used to treat severe depression that has not responded to other forms of treatment such as medication or therapy. It is particularly effective for individuals who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or have psychotic symptoms associated with their depression. ECT works by inducing a controlled seizure in the brain, which is believed to help reset brain chemistry and improve symptoms of depression.
33.
What disorder did American psychiatrist Leo Kanner first discover in 1943?
Answer:
Autism
Explanation:
Leo Kanner is credited with first identifying and describing autism as a unique disorder in 1943. His groundbreaking research and observations of children with similar symptoms led to the recognition of autism as a distinct condition separate from other developmental disorders. Kanner's work laid the foundation for further research and understanding of autism spectrum disorders.
34.
What is the delusion of being an animal called?
Answer:
Lycanthropy
Explanation:
The delusion of being an animal is called lycanthropy, which is a rare psychiatric condition where an individual believes they can transform into, or has transformed into, an animal. This delusion is often associated with folklore and mythology, particularly the idea of werewolves. Individuals experiencing lycanthropy may exhibit behaviors such as howling, growling, or feeling an uncontrollable urge to act like an animal.
35.
What is the name of the view in which abnormal psychological functioning is caused by physical causes?
Answer:
Somatogenic Perspective
Explanation:
The somatogenic perspective is a viewpoint in psychology that attributes abnormal psychological functioning to physical causes, such as genetics, brain damage, or chemical imbalances in the body. This perspective suggests that mental disorders can be understood and treated by addressing the underlying physical factors that contribute to them.
36.
What part of the hypothalamus reduces hunger when activated?
Answer:
Ventromedial Hypothalamus
Explanation:
When the ventromedial hypothalamus is activated, it sends signals to the body to reduce hunger. This area of the hypothalamus is responsible for regulating feelings of fullness and satiety. Activation of the ventromedial hypothalamus can lead to a decrease in appetite and food intake, helping to maintain a healthy balance of energy in the body.
37.
What was the first state to recognize psychology as a practice-oriented profession?
Answer:
Connecticut
Explanation:
Connecticut was the first state to recognize psychology as a practice-oriented profession, setting a precedent for other states to follow. This early recognition helped establish the field of psychology as a legitimate profession with specific standards and guidelines for practice. By being the first state to acknowledge the importance of psychology as a profession, Connecticut paved the way for the development and growth of the field in the United States.
38.
What, according to Carl Jung, is the name of the female aspect in the collective unconscious of men?
Answer:
Anima
Explanation:
Carl Jung believed that the anima represents the feminine qualities and characteristics that exist in the collective unconscious of men. This aspect serves as a bridge to the unconscious and helps men connect with their emotions, creativity, and intuition. By integrating the anima into their consciousness, men can achieve a more balanced and harmonious sense of self.
39.
What, according to Freud, is the psychological force that employs reason?
Answer:
Ego
Explanation:
Freud believed that the ego is the psychological force that employs reason. The ego acts as a mediator between the id, which is driven by basic instincts and desires, and the superego, which represents societal norms and values. It helps individuals make rational decisions and navigate the demands of the external world while balancing the conflicting demands of the id and superego.
40.
In 1883, the first laboratory of psychology was established in what American city?
Answer:
Johns Hopkins University
Explanation:
Johns Hopkins University is known for establishing the first laboratory of psychology in 1883. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, the university played a significant role in the development of psychology as a scientific discipline. The laboratory provided a space for researchers and students to conduct experiments and studies that laid the foundation for modern psychology.
41.
Which of the four lobes of the brain is responsible for receptive language, memory and emotion?
Answer:
Temporal
Explanation:
The temporal lobe of the brain is responsible for receptive language, memory, and emotion due to its role in processing auditory information, including language comprehension. It also plays a crucial role in memory formation and storage, as well as regulating emotions and social behavior. Additionally, the temporal lobe is involved in processing visual information and recognizing faces.
42.
Which state became the first to pass a bill that called for the sterilization of people with mental disorders?
Answer:
Indiana
Explanation:
Indiana became the first state to pass a bill calling for the sterilization of people with mental disorders as part of the eugenics movement in the early 20th century. This legislation aimed to prevent those deemed "unfit" from reproducing, reflecting the discriminatory beliefs prevalent at the time regarding mental health and genetics.
43.
Who discovered the effectiveness of using Lithium to treat mental disorders in 1949?
Answer:
John Cade
Explanation:
John Cade is credited with discovering the effectiveness of using Lithium to treat mental disorders in 1949. His research showed that Lithium could help stabilize mood and treat conditions such as bipolar disorder. This discovery revolutionized the treatment of mental illness and paved the way for the use of Lithium as a common medication in psychiatry.
44.
Who is best known for naming dementia praecox, what we now call schizophrenia?
Answer:
Emil Kraepelin
Explanation:
Emil Kraepelin is best known for naming dementia praecox, which is now known as schizophrenia. Kraepelin was a German psychiatrist who made significant contributions to the understanding and classification of mental disorders. By distinguishing between different types of mental illness, he laid the foundation for modern psychiatric diagnosis and treatment. His work on dementia praecox helped to advance the understanding of schizophrenia as a distinct disorder with its own unique symptoms and course of illness.
45.
Who is considered the father of behaviorism?
Answer:
John Watson
Explanation:
John Watson is considered the father of behaviorism due to his pioneering work in psychology, specifically his emphasis on observable behaviors as the focus of scientific study. Watson rejected the prevailing emphasis on introspection and instead focused on the idea that behavior could be studied objectively and scientifically. His famous "Little Albert" experiment demonstrated how fear could be conditioned in a child, further solidifying his contributions to the development of behaviorism as a major school of thought in psychology.
46.
Which psychologist was the son of German film and stage celebrities and was encouraged to become an actor?
Answer:
Hans Eysenck
Explanation:
Hans Eysenck was the son of German film and stage celebrities and was encouraged to become an actor, which explains why he was influenced by the performing arts early in life. This background likely influenced his interest in human behavior and psychology, leading him to become a prominent psychologist known for his work in personality theory and intelligence testing.
47.
Whose theories of psychosocial development did the idea of the "identity crisis" derive from?
Answer:
Erik Erikson
Explanation:
Erik Erikson's theories of psychosocial development, particularly his concept of the identity crisis, have had a significant impact on the field of psychology. His idea that individuals go through stages of development where they must resolve conflicts related to their sense of self and identity has become a foundational concept in understanding human growth and maturation. Through his work, Erikson highlighted the importance of successfully navigating these identity crises in order to achieve a healthy sense of self and personal fulfillment.
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