Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 78%

According to the processing-speed theory, what characterizes older adults' problem-solving ability?

Rationale

As the nervous system slows with advanced age, adults' ability to process information declines.

According to the processing-speed theory, cognitive processing speed tends to decrease as individuals age due to changes in the nervous system, impacting problem-solving abilities.

A (As the nervous system improves with advanced age, adults' ability to process information improves.) YOUR ANSWER

This statement contradicts the processing-speed theory, which asserts that cognitive processing speed typically declines as individuals age rather than improves.

B (As the nervous system slows with advanced age, adults' ability to process information improves.) YOUR ANSWER

This choice presents a contradictory statement to the established notion that a slowing nervous system in older adults is associated with a decline in processing speed and problem-solving abilities.

C (As the nervous system slows with advanced age, adults' ability to process information declines.) CORRECT

Correct. The processing-speed theory posits that as the nervous system undergoes age-related changes and slows down, older adults experience a decline in their ability to process information efficiently, affecting problem-solving skills.

D (As the nervous system improves with advanced age, adults' ability to process information declines.) YOUR ANSWER

This statement is inconsistent with the processing-speed theory, as it suggests that an improvement in the nervous system with age leads to a decline in processing speed, which is not supported by research findings.

Conclusion

In line with the processing-speed theory, the decline in cognitive processing speed among older adults is attributed to the age-related slowing of the nervous system. This decrease in processing speed can impact problem-solving abilities and cognitive functions as individuals grow older.

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