Which of the following options is an accurate description of the effects of teratogens?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Here is a close examination of each option regarding the effects of teratogens.
Option A: 'Effects on the developing embryo or fetus depend on the timing of exposure.' This statement aligns with well-established teratology: the same agent can produce different outcomes depending on the gestational stage at which exposure occurs, since different tissues form at different times. This makes timing a critical factor in teratogenic risk.
Option B: 'A single teratogen will cause the same effects whenever the embryo or fetus is exposed to it.' This is inaccurate. Teratogenic effects are highly dependent on timing, dose, and genetic susceptibility. The same agent can produce different anomalies or none at all if exposure occurs at a different developmental window, so this option overgeneralizes.
Option C: 'A variety of defects can result from a single teratogen because of the interaction between the teratogen and the mother’s genotype.' While maternal genotype and genetic factors can influence susceptibility, this statement is overstated as the sole mechanism. Teratogens can cause a range of outcomes due to timing, dose, and fetal genetics too, and it implies a specific interaction with maternal genotype as the primary driver, which is not universally accurate.
Option D: 'Father exposure effects result through the father’s interaction with the child in the postnatal environment.' This option incorrectly shifts focus to paternal exposure and postnatal environment. Teratogenic risk is typically discussed in terms of in utero exposure to the developing embryo/fetus, not paternal exposure influencing postnatal interactions, making this statement misleading.
In summary, option A correctly captures the core principle that timing of exposure critically shapes teratogenic effects, whereas options B, C, and D misrepresent the variability, mechanisms, or timing considerations involved in teratology.

PSYC20008_2025_SM1 Developmental Psychology (PSYC20008_2025_SM1) End of Semester PRACTICE Exam MCQ - Requires Respondus LockDown Browser

Which of the following options is an accurate description of the effects of teratogens?

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