Question

which of the following best describes the effects that fetal alcohol syndrome has on a child’s mental abilities?
a. fetal alcohol syndrome can cause parts of the brain to shut down, leading to a learning disability.
b. fetal exposure to alcohol can damage a child’s central nervous system, making it physically
painful for them to learn fine motor skills.
c. fetal alcohol syndrome can cause parts of the brain to be underdeveloped and can cause
intellectual disabilities.
d. fetal exposure to alcohol is the cause of numerous mental abnormalities, such as a smaller
cerebrum.

Explanation:

1. Option A is incorrect: FAS does not cause brain parts to shut down, it causes improper development.
2. Option B is incorrect: It focuses on physical pain with fine motor skills, not core mental ability impacts.
3. Option C is correct: Fetal alcohol syndrome leads to underdeveloped brain regions and permanent, broad intellectual disabilities which is the primary, defining impact on mental abilities.
4. Option D is incorrect: A smaller cerebrum is a physical structural change, not a direct description of effects on mental abilities themselves.

Answer:

C. Fetal alcohol syndrome can cause parts of the brain to be underdeveloped and can cause intellectual disabilities.