Introductory Psychology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

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Prepare for the CLEP Psychology Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations to help you succeed. Master the content and pass your exam!

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What is the most significant factor in determining how an individual will develop across their lifespan?

  1. Personality

  2. Nutrition

  3. Environment

  4. Genetics

The correct answer is: Environment

The most significant factor in determining how an individual will develop across their lifespan is their environment. While all of the other options- personality, nutrition, and genetics- can certainly impact an individual's development, environment plays the largest role as it encompasses the physical and social surroundings that a person is exposed to. Personality can be influenced by genetics and environment, but it does not solely determine one's development. Similarly, nutrition and genetics play a role in an individual's physical growth and health, but they do not have as wide-reaching effects as environment does. One's environment can shape their beliefs, values, behaviors, and opportunities, ultimately impacting their overall development throughout their lifespan.