PSYC 140 MODULE 7 EXAM - QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (A+
GRADED), Exams of Psychology
Module question: Give an overview of the types of physical changes that occur in early adulthood. Why
is this type of development considered multidirectional?
The list given in this module shows an overview of certain types of physical decline:
-Maximum heart rate may gradually decrease
-Respiratory capacity gradually decreases (becomes noticeable after age 25 under heavy exercise
conditions)
-Lens of the eye stiffens, thickens
-Sensitivity to sound at high frequencies decreases
-Fast-twitch muscles decline in size and amount
Multidirectional indicates that there are both declines and improvements in the same person during
this time period.
Module question: What did this Module say about differences in sexual behavior between married and
unmarried couples?
Married couples report having more sex than unmarried individuals.
Module question: How would you summarize the information on the likelihood of couples divorcing?
Were you surprised by any of the information regarding divorce statistics? Why or why not?
Your answer should include the following: a discussion of how the "50%" figure is not a literal number
but is rather a projection of the likelihood of couples to divorce at the present time. This rate might be
much higher or much lower for any particular couple. If you reverse the trends discussed in this
module, you can see that the odds for a particular couple to get a divorce are higher if: money is tight,
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if the couple have a child before marrying, if at least one partner was a child of a divorce, if neither
partner is religious, and if one partner never attended college.
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, PSYC 140 MODULE 7 EXAM - QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 05/12/2026
Module question: How would you summarize postformal thought? How does postformal thought differ
from Piaget's formal operations?
Although different theories describe this stage (and although there is controversy over whether adults
actually reach this stage!), it generally consists of being able to reflect and make more complex
judgments, and seeing multiple perspectives and points of view.
Although people in formal operations demonstrate abstract thinking, postformal thought shows more
flexibility and humility as people see multiple perspectives.
Module question: Can you see examples of postformal thinking in your own life or in the lives of others
you know? How would you classify that example using Perry's stages?
[Note]Answers will vary, but should identify one of Perry's 3 stages (dualistic, multiple thinking,
commitment within relativism).
An example of postformal thinking in my life might be how I approach political debates. In my
younger years, I may have thought in more dualistic terms—believing my viewpoint was "right" and
the opposing side was "wrong." Over time, I've come to recognize that many issues have multiple
valid perspectives and that understanding different viewpoints requires considering the complexities
and nuances behind them. For instance, when discussing healthcare policy, I can see valid concerns on
both sides of the debate, such as the need for universal healthcare and the challenges of its funding.
This shift from black-and-white thinking to appreciating multiple perspectives aligns with Perry's
multiple thinking stage. Additionally, after reflecting on the different viewpoints, I've made an
informed decision about what I believe should be prioritized in policy, which aligns with commitment
within relativism, recognizing the validity of other perspectives but making a commitment to my own
beliefs based on the information and arguments I find most compelling.
Module question: Describe Sternberg's three components of love.
Intimacy: emotional connectedness, involves warm communication. Passion: biological closeness,
sexual and romantic feelings. Commitment: cognitive component, a decision to stay together.
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Module question: Choose three of the 7 types of love discussed in this module and create a profile of a
fictional couple that exemplifies these types of love.
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, PSYC 140 MODULE 7 EXAM - QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 05/12/2026
Lena and Jake's relationship evolves through three types of love as described by Sternberg. Initially,
they experience infatuation, marked by intense passion and physical attraction with little emotional
connection or commitment. Over time, their relationship deepens into companionate love, where
their emotional bond grows, and they commit to each other's well-being, though the initial passion
fades. Years later, their love matures into consummate love, where they combine intimacy, passion,
and commitment, resulting in a deep, lasting connection. Their journey reflects how love can evolve
from excitement and physical attraction to a stable, fulfilling partnership, with each stage building
upon the previous one.
Module question: Identify common symptoms of menopause.
Mood fluctuations, hot flashes, shrinking of reproductive organs, difficulties becoming sexually
aroused, decreased skin elasticity, loss of bone mass, raised blood pressure.
Module question: Why don't all women experience symptoms of menopause?
A woman's experience of menopause depends on a variety of factors, including race and culture.
Module question: What are the pros and cons of hormone therapy?
Pros: Most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms, protect against osteoporosis. Cons:
Increased risk of certain cancers—breast, uterine, heart attack, stroke in some women.
Module question: What cognitive improvements can be observed in middle age, according to the Seattle
Longitudinal Study?
Verbal abilities/increased vocabulary, spatial reasoning, simple math/problem solving, abstract
reasoning.
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Module question: Given what you learned in this module, how would you respond to the claim,
"everyone goes through a mid-life crisis"?
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