Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

What outcome is associated with exposure to teratogens during critical periods of fetal development?

1. Enhancement of physical abilities.

2. No impact on fetal development.

3. Potential for severe malformations.

4. Improvement of cognitive function.

The correct answer is: Potential for severe malformations.

Exposure to teratogens during critical periods of fetal development is linked to the potential for severe malformations. Teratogens are substances that can disturb the development of an embryo or fetus. During critical periods, specific organs and systems are forming, which makes them particularly vulnerable to external factors. When a teratogen is introduced during these sensitive times, it can disrupt normal development and lead to a variety of physical or neurological impairments. The impact of teratogens varies depending on the timing, type, and duration of exposure. For instance, exposure to certain drugs, infections, alcohol, or environmental pollutants can result in congenital defects such as heart abnormalities, limb malformations, and brain damage. Understanding this concept is crucial in prenatal care, as avoiding known teratogens during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of these adverse developmental outcomes. Other potential outcomes, such as enhancement of physical abilities, no impact on fetal development, or improvement of cognitive function, do not accurately reflect the known effects of teratogens. Rather than beneficial outcomes, teratogens are primarily associated with risks and negative consequences during the specific window of development in which fetal structures and functions are being established.