Human Growth and Development

Human Growth and Development – Revision Exam (Certificate Level, Kenya)

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (10 Marks)

1. Which stage of human development occurs from birth to 2 years?
   1. Adolescence
      
   2. Infancy
      
   3. Early childhood
      
   4. Adulthood
      Answer: b) Infancy
2. The theorist known for the “Psychosocial Stages of Development” is:
   1. Sigmund Freud
      
   2. Jean Piaget
      
   3. Erik Erikson
      
   4. Lawrence Kohlberg
      Answer: c) Erik Erikson
3. A child’s ability to understand that objects exist even when out of sight is called:
   1. Conservation
      
   2. Object permanence
      
   3. Egocentrism
      
   4. Attachment
      Answer: b) Object permanence
4. Which hormone is primarily responsible for puberty changes in males?
   1. Estrogen
      
   2. Progesterone
      
   3. Testosterone
      
   4. Insulin
      Answer: c) Testosterone
5. The correct order of Piaget’s stages of cognitive development is:
   1. Sensorimotor → Preoperational → Concrete operational → Formal operational
      
   2. Preoperational → Sensorimotor → Formal operational → Concrete operational
      
   3. Formal operational → Concrete operational → Sensorimotor → Preoperational
      
   4. Concrete operational → Sensorimotor → Preoperational → Formal operational
      Answer: a) Sensorimotor → Preoperational → Concrete operational → Formal operational

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Section B: Short Answer Questions (20 Marks)

6. Define “growth” and “development” in human development studies.
   Answer:
   • Growth: Refers to physical changes (e.g., height, weight).
     
   • Development: Involves psychological, emotional, and social progression.
7. Name two factors that influence human growth.
   Answer:
   • Genetics (heredity)
     
   • Nutrition
8. What is the importance of play in early childhood development?
   Answer:
   • Enhances motor skills.
     
   • Promotes social and cognitive learning.
9. List two characteristics of adolescence.
   Answer:
   • Rapid physical changes (puberty).
     
   • Emotional volatility (mood swings).
10. Explain the term “attachment” in child development.
    Answer:
    • A deep emotional bond between a child and caregiver (e.g., parent).

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Section C: Essay Questions (20 Marks)

11. Discuss the stages of Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory.
    Answer:
    • Infancy (Trust vs. Mistrust): Babies learn to trust caregivers.
      
    • Early Childhood (Autonomy vs. Shame): Toddlers assert independence.
      
    • Preschool (Initiative vs. Guilt): Children explore responsibilities.
      
    • School Age (Industry vs. Inferiority): Kids develop competence.
      
    • Adolescence (Identity vs. Role Confusion): Teens form self-identity.
      
    • Adulthood (Intimacy vs. Isolation): Young adults build relationships.
12. Explain how malnutrition affects human growth in Kenya.
    Answer:
    • Stunted growth: Lack of nutrients slows physical development.
      
    • Cognitive delays: Poor nutrition harms brain development.
      
    • Weak immunity: Increases susceptibility to diseases.
13. Compare and contrast nature vs. nurture in human development.
    Answer:
    • Nature (Genetics): Inherited traits (e.g., eye color, height).
      
    • Nurture (Environment): External influences (e.g., education, culture).
      
    • Interaction: Both shape personality, intelligence, and behavior.

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Bonus Question (5 Marks)

14. Why is adolescence considered a critical stage in human development?
    Answer:
    • Physical and sexual maturation occurs.
      
    • Identity formation (career, values) takes place.
      
    • Risk of negative influences (drugs, peer pressure).