Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

What is one effect of prenatal exposure to alcohol on fetal development?

1. Improved cognitive function

2. Increased birth weight

3. Physical deformities

4. Enhanced motor skills

The correct answer is: Physical deformities

Prenatal exposure to alcohol significantly impacts fetal development, and one of the notable effects is the occurrence of physical deformities. This condition is often termed Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which encompasses a range of effects that alcohol can have on an unborn baby. These physical deformities can include facial anomalies, growth deficiencies, and other structural abnormalities that may not be immediately visible but can affect the child's overall health and development. Alcohol interferes with normal fetal cell growth and can disrupt essential processes of development, leading to alterations in both physical appearance and organ formation. This disruption can result in lifelong challenges for the affected individual, impacting their health and development in various ways. Understanding this impact emphasizes the importance of avoiding alcohol during pregnancy to prevent these potentially serious developmental issues.