US High School Psychology Practice Exam

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Prepare for the US High School Psychology Exam with detailed questions and explanations. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions to enhance your understanding and get exam-ready!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What primarily determines an individual's flavor sensitivity?

Cultural influences
Genetic factors
Exposure to various cuisines
Age-related changes

The correct answer is: Genetic factors

Flavor sensitivity is largely influenced by genetic factors, which play a crucial role in how individuals perceive different tastes and flavors. Research indicates that variations in specific genes are associated with the number of taste buds a person has, which in turn affects their sensitivity to certain flavors, such as bitterness or sweetness. For example, individuals with a higher density of taste receptors may detect flavors more intensely compared to those with fewer receptors. While cultural influences, exposure to various cuisines, and age-related changes can affect a person’s preferences and experiences with flavors, the foundational ability to taste and discern flavors is primarily rooted in genetic makeup. This genetic predisposition lays the groundwork for how taste experiences develop over time, influenced later by environmental factors such as culture and exposure to different foods.