APPROACHES- Biopsychology Flashcards
What is a biological approach?
A perspective that emphasises the importance of physical processes in the body such as genetic inheritance and neural function.
A phenotype is the result of the combined effect of…
Inheritance and environment.
A recent study showed that Alzheimer’s disease may be partly inherited.
John’s father suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. John is keen to get genetically tested to see if he will develop Alzheimer’s disease. Explain why John’s genotype will not reveal whether he will suffer from Alzheimer’s disease.
The genetic test will reveal John’s genotype- the set of genes that he has inherited. John may be able to determine a diathesis for Alzheimer’s based on the genetic test, but this is an incomplete result as it will not take into account specific environment stressors (the phenotype) that could contribute to him developing the disease. The test can’t predict the potential array of factors that may lead to Alzheimer’s, as developing a dementia type disease is the result of an interaction between genes and environment.
Jemima and Lily are identical twins. Lily complains to Jemima, “ I don’t understand it. If we have the same genes, how come you have clearer skin then me and are much better at netball?”
Jemima laughs and replies, “Lily, we may be identical twins, but we are not identical people.”
Using your knowledge of genotype and phenotype, explain Lily’s and Jemima’s comments.
Lily and Jemima are MZ twins, so their genotypes are identical (same DNA), explaining Lily’s confusion as to why they do not have identical phenotypes. Their different phenotypes are demonstrated in Jemima having clearer skin and superior netball skills. Environmental factors such as Jemima eating better or having a good netball coach may have produced her specific phenotype. If Lily’s habits and experiences differ from Jemima’s, then this would explain their non-identical phenotypes.
Steph and Georgie are both working mothers.
Steph enjoys being challenged at work. Steph’s daughter listens to her mother’s colleagues and praising and admiring Steph’s work and sees the awards she has been presented with in recognition of her effort. Steph’s daughter is an enthusiastic student who is keen to be challenged at school.
Georgie hates her job. her daughter ha sheard her boss shout at her down the phone for missing deadlines and sees how tired Georgie is after staying up late working. Georgie’s daughter feels anxious when she is given difficult work and does not want to go to school.
In what ways might the biological approach explain the different attitudes of Steph’s and Georgie’s daughters to their schoolwork?
Steph’s and Georgie’s daughters’ different responses to their schoolwork may arise from their differing genotypes e.g. Steph’s daughter may have inherited genes from her mother which make her able to cope with stress well. The different set of genes Georgie’s daughter inherited from her mother may account for the different attitudes the girls have about their schoolwork.
Differences in neurochemistry may cause Steph’s daughter to receive higher rewards for succeeding in her schoolwork. Georgie’s daughter may suffer from imbalanced serotonin, increasing her anxiety.
Briefly explain the process of synaptic transmission.
The process of which one neuron communicates with another.
With reference to neurotransmitters, explain what is meant by both excitation and inhibition.
Excitatory neurotransmitters make the post-synaptic cell more likely to fire, whereas inhibitory neurotransmitters make them less likely to fire.
Distinguish between a sensory neuron and a relay neuron.
Sensory neuron sends electrical impulses to a relay neuron, which is located in the spinal cord of the CNS. Relay neurons connect sensory neurons to motor neurons.
Identify and describe two glands of the endocrine system.
The thyroid gland and parathyroid glands are located in front of the neck, below the larynx (voice box). The thyroid plays an important role in the body’s metabolism. The parathyroid glands play an important role in the regulation of the body’s calcium balance.
Briefly outline two hormones and explain the function of each of these.
Testosterone is responsible for the development of male sex characteristics during puberty while also promoting muscle growth. In females, the ovaries release oestrogen which controls the regulation of the female reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
Using an example, explain what is meant by the flight or fight response.
The fight-or-flight response can happen in the face of imminent physical danger. It can also be the result of a psychological threat, such as preparing to give a big presentation at school or work.
Discuss the contribution of the biological approach to our understanding of human behaviour.
The biological approach is a perspective of function, on the basis of genes we inherit and that thoughts, feelings and behaviour are all on a physical basis. It suggests the physical functions of the body affect and work with the brain. This approach has an underlying argument for our characteristics that are determinedby nature. Genes are genetic information to which is carried by DNA in the chromosomes. These form a basis of behaviour, that are heritable whether they’re our physical attributes or behavioural. Behaviour is assumed to be a cause from neurochemistry. This is the actions of chemicals within the brain, chemical transmission allows our thoughts and behaviour to be processed and to occur. Our bodily communication is down to the brain and the nervous system. Neurotransmitters are used in the process; they are brain chemicals that are released from the synaptic vesicles that relay signals up and down the synapse – one neuron to another. An example of a neurotransmitter is serotonin or adrenaline. When these are released, they inhibit or excite other neurons to achieve responses.
