NPE Practice Exam Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

NPE Practice Exam Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the primary goal of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)? To help clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. How does classical conditioning explain phobia development? A neutral stimulus becomes associated with a fearful response through repeated pairing. What is the main function of the amygdala in emotional processing? It regulates fear, threat detection, and emotional memory. How does operant conditioning differ from classical conditioning? Operant conditioning involves learning through rewards and punishments, while classical conditioning involves associations between stimuli. What is the ethical principle of beneficence in psychology? To act in ways that promote the well-being and best interests of clients. 2 Which defense mechanism involves redirecting unacceptable impulses toward a safer target? Displacement What is the main purpose of a psychological assessment? To evaluate cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning for diagnosis or treatment planning. How does Maslow’s hierarchy of needs explain human motivation? Individuals are motivated to fulfill basic physiological needs before higher-level psychological and self-actualization needs. What is the difference between positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement? Positive reinforcement adds a rewarding stimulus to increase behavior, while negative reinforcement removes an aversive stimulus to increase behavior. Which brain structure is most associated with memory consolidation? Hippocampus 3 How does attachment theory explain early childhood development? Secure attachment forms through consistent caregiver responsiveness, promoting healthy social and emotional development. What is the primary function of the prefrontal cortex? Executive functions, decision-making, planning, and impulse control. How do psychologists differentiate between reliability and validity in assessments? Reliability refers to consistency of results, while validity refers to whether the test measures what it is intended to measure. Which type of memory is responsible for conscious recall of facts and events? Declarative (explicit) memory What is the role of neurotransmitters in behavior? They transmit signals between neurons and influence mood, cognition, and behavior. 4 How does the concept of cognitive dissonance affect human decision-making? Individuals experience discomfort when their beliefs and behaviors conflict, often motivating attitude or behavior change. Which approach emphasizes understanding the unconscious mind? Psychoanalytic or psychodynamic approach What is the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable in research? The independent variable is manipulated to observe its effect, and the dependent variable is the outcome measured. What is the primary purpose of informed consent in psychological practice? To ensure clients understand the nature, risks, and