Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

The risk of malformation is highest for mothers who are:

1. older than 40 years of age.

2. younger than 20 years of age.

3. younger than 20 or older than 40 years of age.

4. between 20 and 40 years of age.

The correct answer is: younger than 20 or older than 40 years of age.

The correct answer highlights that the risk of malformation is notably increased for mothers at the extremes of reproductive age, specifically those younger than 20 or older than 40 years of age. Research indicates that advanced maternal age, particularly after 35, is associated with a higher likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, and other developmental disorders. This is due to the aging process of a woman's eggs and the cumulative effects of environmental factors over time. Conversely, younger mothers, especially those under 20, face risks as well. This can include a higher incidence of preterm birth, low birth weight, and certain developmental issues, often linked to socioeconomic factors, lack of adequate prenatal care, and overall maturity levels necessary for caring for a child. The age range between 20 and 40 years old is generally regarded as a lower-risk period for pregnancy. During this time, women are often more physically equipped to handle the demands of pregnancy, and the associated health risks are significantly reduced compared to the other two age groups. Thus, option C accurately encompasses the increased risk associated with both younger and older maternal ages, making it the most comprehensive and accurate choice.