(Lifespan) Psychology | Portage Learning | Q & A | 2026
Edition (PDF)
1. Which of the following best defines early adulthood in human development?
A) The period from ages 18 to 40, characterized by peak physical functioning and major life decisions
B) The period from ages 11 to 18, marked by puberty and identity formation
C) The period from ages 40 to 65, focused on generativity and career consolidation
D) The period from ages 6 to 11, defined by school achievement and peer relationships
Correct Answer: The period from ages 18 to 40, characterized by peak physical functioning and major
life decisions
Rationale: Early adulthood spans approximately ages 18 to 40, a time when individuals reach their
physical peak, establish careers, and form intimate relationships. The other options describe
adolescence, middle adulthood, and middle childhood respectively.
2. What is the approximate age range of the physical peak in early adulthood?
A) 15 to 25 years
B) 20 to 35 years
C) 30 to 45 years
D) 35 to 50 years
Correct Answer: 20 to 35 years
Rationale: Research indicates that the physical peak occurs roughly between ages 20 and 35. During this
time, sensory abilities are sharpest, psychomotor skills are at their best, and the body is at its most
capable. The other options do not reflect the typical age range for peak physical functioning.
3. Which of the following is a physical change that begins in early adulthood?
A) Maximum heart rate gradually decreases
,B) Height increases significantly
C) Muscle mass increases indefinitely
D) Bone density peaks in the late 40s
Correct Answer: Maximum heart rate gradually decreases
Rationale: In early adulthood, maximum heart rate gradually decreases as part of normal physical aging.
Respiratory capacity also declines after age 25 under heavy exercise conditions, the lens of the eye
stiffens, and fast-twitch muscles decline. The other options describe changes that do not occur during
early adulthood.
4. Which term describes the principle that development in early adulthood involves both declines and
improvements in the same person?
A) Multidimensional
B) Multidirectional
C) Plasticity
D) Lifelong
Correct Answer: Multidirectional
Rationale: Multidirectional development indicates that there are both declines and improvements
occurring within the same person during early adulthood. For example, while some physical capacities
decline, cognitive and emotional skills may continue to develop. The other options describe different
features of lifespan development.
5. According to the module, which of the following is a physical decline that becomes noticeable after
age 25?
A) Loss of bone density
B) Decreased respiratory capacity under heavy exercise
C) Reduced muscle mass in all muscle types
D) Increased sensitivity to high-frequency sounds
, Correct Answer: Decreased respiratory capacity under heavy exercise
Rationale: Respiratory capacity gradually decreases and becomes noticeable after age 25 under heavy
exercise conditions. The lens of the eye stiffens and sensitivity to high-frequency sounds decreases, but
respiratory decline under heavy exertion is specifically noted to become noticeable after age 25.
6. Which of the following changes occurs to the lens of the eye during early adulthood?
A) The lens becomes more flexible
B) The lens stiffens and thickens
C) The lens becomes clearer
D) The lens increases in size
Correct Answer: The lens stiffens and thickens
Rationale: During early adulthood, the lens of the eye stiffens and thickens, which contributes to
changes in vision. This is a normal age-related change that can affect near vision over time. The other
options describe changes that do not occur during early adulthood.
7. Which type of muscle fibers decline in size and amount during early adulthood?
A) Slow-twitch muscles
B) Fast-twitch muscles
C) Cardiac muscles
D) Smooth muscles
Correct Answer: Fast-twitch muscles
Rationale: Fast-twitch muscles, which are responsible for quick, powerful movements, decline in size
and amount during early adulthood. Slow-twitch muscles are less affected by this age-related decline.
Cardiac and smooth muscles are not typically described in this context.
8. Which of the following psychomotor abilities is at its peak during early adulthood?