Approaches - Biological Approach Flashcards
What are the assumptions of the biological approach?
The biological approach suggests that all psychological processes are first biological and should be studied through biological structures and processes, such as genes, neurochemistry, and the nervous system. The mind lives in the brain, meaning all thoughts, feelings, and behaviours ultimately have a physical basis, in contrast to the cognitive approach, which sees mental processes as separate from the brain.
How does the biological approach explain the genetic basis of behaviour?
Behaviour genetics investigate the heritability of traits like intelligence and personality by comparing concordance rates between monozygotic (MZ) twins, who share 100% of their genes, and dizygotic (DZ) twins, who share about 50%. Higher concordance rates in MZ twins for certain traits suggest a genetic basis for those traits.
What is the difference between genotype and phenotype in the biological approach?
Genotype refers to a person’s genetic make-up, while phenotype is the expression of these genes in terms of physical, behavioural, and psychological characteristics. Phenotype is influenced by environmental factors, as seen in identical twins with different physical traits due to lifestyle differences. For instance, phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder, is treatable through diet, showing the interaction between genotype and environment.
How does the biological approach explain evolution and behaviour?
Evolutionary theory, proposed by Charles Darwin, states that natural selection drives behavioural traits that aid survival and reproduction. Traits enhancing survival, like attachment (as suggested by Bowlby), are more likely to be passed on. For example, giraffes with longer necks had a survival advantage, which allowed them to reproduce, passing on the genes for longer necks.
What is one evaluation point for the biological approach regarding its methods?
The biological approach uses precise and scientific methods, such as fMRI, EEG, twin studies, and drug trials. These methods provide reliable, objective data, making it possible to measure neural processes accurately and establish the biological approach on a scientific basis.
What is one evaluation point for the biological approach regarding its real-world applications?
The biological approach has led to the development of psychoactive drugs to treat mental disorders like depression, allowing patients to manage conditions without hospitalization. This demonstrates the practical and life-changing impact of the approach.
What is one evaluation point for the biological approach regarding causation?
The biological approach is criticized for causal conclusions, as it often assumes a relationship between two factors when there may be a third variable. For example, studies show that taking paracetamol alleviates headaches, but this does not mean a lack of paracetamol causes headaches.
What is one evaluation point for the biological approach regarding determinism?
The biological approach is determinist, assuming behaviour is controlled by internal biological factors like genes. This has implications for the legal system, as it raises questions about accountability for actions if behaviour is biologically determined.
