Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

Which theorist proposed that aggressive behavior may be linked to prenatal androgen exposure?

1. Perry

2. Bandura

3. Freud

4. Skinner

The correct answer is: Perry

The theorist who proposed that aggressive behavior may be linked to prenatal androgen exposure is indeed associated with research in this area. This idea is rooted in the understanding that various factors, including hormonal influences during prenatal development, can affect personality and behavior later in life. In examining prenatal influences, researchers have focused on androgens, which are male hormones such as testosterone. It has been suggested that higher levels of exposure to these hormones in utero can predispose individuals, particularly females, to more aggressive behaviors that are traditionally associated with males. This line of thought integrates biological perspectives with developmental psychology, indicating that early hormonal environment can interact with genetic predispositions and social learning, ultimately shaping behavior. This perspective is distinct from the contributions of other theorists listed. For instance, Bandura's work focuses primarily on social learning theory and how behaviors are learned through observation and imitation. Freud's theories center on psychosexual development and the dynamics of the unconscious mind, while Skinner's work is based on operant conditioning and does not emphasize biological factors. Thus, the correct answer aligns with contemporary understanding of aggression as influenced by biological, particularly prenatal hormonal factors.