Approaches Flashcards
What is the biological approach to psychology? (AO1)
• The biological approach suggests that behavior is influenced by biological factors such as genes, neurotransmitters, hormones, and the nervous system. It emphasizes the role of genetics and physiological processes in shaping thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
• Key assumptions include:
• Brain Structure and Function: Behavior is controlled by the brain, with specific areas responsible for different functions.
• Neurotransmitters: Chemicals like serotonin and dopamine influence mood and behavior, impacting conditions such as depression or schizophrenia.
• Genetics: Behavior is influenced by inherited traits and genetic predisposition (e.g., twin studies showing a genetic link in behaviors
How does the biological approach apply to real-life scenarios? (AO2)
• Medical Treatment for Mental Health: Medications that adjust neurotransmitter levels (e.g., antidepressants for depression or antipsychotics for schizophrenia) are based on biological principles.
• Neuroplasticity and Recovery: Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself, is crucial for recovery after brain injuries, showing how the biological approach has practical applications in rehabilitation and therapy.
What are the strengths and limitations of the biological approach? (AO3)
Strengths:
• Scientific Foundation: The biological approach is based on scientific methods, including brain imaging (e.g., fMRI, PET scans), providing objective and reliable evidence about brain activity.
• Applications to Medicine: The biological approach has led to effective medical treatments, such as psychotropic drugs that manage psychological disorders.
Limitations:
• Reductionism: The approach is criticized for being overly reductionist, ignoring the complexity of human behavior by simplifying it to biological factors alone. For instance, it may neglect the role of environment or social influences.
• Determinism: The approach can be seen as deterministic, suggesting that behavior is entirely determined by biology, leaving little room for free will or personal responsibility.
What is neuroplasticity and how does it relate to the biological approach? (AO1)
• Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections throughout life in response to learning, experience, or injury.
• This concept challenges earlier ideas that the brain’s structure is fixed after a certain age and emphasizes the adaptability of the brain.
• Functional Recovery: Neuroplasticity allows damaged areas of the brain to compensate for lost functions after injury (e.g., if the left hemisphere is damaged, the right hemisphere may take over some language functions).
How does neuroplasticity apply to real-life scenarios? (AO2)
• Stroke Rehabilitation: After a stroke, neuroplasticity enables patients to recover lost motor skills, with brain regions taking over the function of damaged areas.
• Learning and Memory: Neuroplasticity explains how the brain adapts to new learning experiences, such as acquiring new skills or languages, by forming new neural pathways.
What are the strengths and limitations of neuroplasticity in the biological approach? (AO3)
Strengths:
• Evidence of Recovery: Studies of stroke victims and brain injury patients demonstrate that neuroplasticity can enable significant recovery of function, even after substantial brain damage.
• Practical Applications: Knowledge of neuroplasticity has led to therapeutic techniques such as cognitive rehabilitation to enhance recovery in patients with neurological conditions.
Limitations:
• Limitations in Severe Damage: Neuroplasticity is not always effective in cases of severe brain damage, particularly if critical areas of the brain are destroyed beyond repair.
• Age-Related Decline: Older individuals may experience a slower rate of neuroplasticity, which can hinder recovery compared to younger individuals.
What are the strengths and limitations of neuroplasticity in the biological approach? (AO3)
Strengths:
• Evidence of Recovery: Studies of stroke victims and brain injury patients demonstrate that neuroplasticity can enable significant recovery of function, even after substantial brain damage.
• Practical Applications: Knowledge of neuroplasticity has led to therapeutic techniques such as cognitive rehabilitation to enhance recovery in patients with neurological conditions.
Limitations:
• Limitations in Severe Damage: Neuroplasticity is not always effective in cases of severe brain damage, particularly if critical areas of the brain are destroyed beyond repair.
• Age-Related Decline: Older individuals may experience a slower rate of neuroplasticity, which can hinder recovery compared to younger individuals.
