Approaches In Psychology

Question 1

Assumptions of the biological approach

Answer 1

• there is a direct correlation between brain activity and cognition
• biochemical imbalances effect behaviour
• behaviour can be inherited (genetic)

Question 2

The biological approach - Darwin

Answer 2

Theory of evolution and natural selection.

Suggested ‘survival of the fittest’ in which successful genes that help an organism to survive in environment will be passed on to future generations. Less successful genes eventually disappear.

This works the same for our behaviour; those that help us to thrive in environment will be passed on through genes to future generations. Eg, aggression to ward of predators.

Question 3

The biological approach - nature or nurture debate

Answer 3

Genotype = genetic configuration / Phenotype = combined effect of genes and environment.

The debate is whether our behaviours are solely influence by genotype (assumption of the bio approach) or whether our environment can affect this as well.

Question 4

The biological approach - twin studies

Answer 4

Twin studies used to analyse effects of nature and nurture.

Twins have same nature/genes, so if placed in different environments and phenotypes change, we can assume that genetics are not the only factor affecting behaviour. (ADD TO THIS CARD)

Question 5

The biological approach - brain physiology and neurochemistry

Answer 5

Interactions of different regions in brain is significant in determining behaviour.

Synaptic transmission excites or inhibits other neurons to affect our mood/actions. Neurochemical imbalance associated with abnormality (eg, imbalance of dopamine results in addictive behaviours).

Question 6

The biological approach - research methods

Answer 6

Animal studies = many species thought to have similar genetic build up, so studies on behaviours are generalised to humans.

Case studies = give real world depth and detail into human behaviours, eg, Phineas Gage.

Drug therapy = behaviour can be manipulated by altering someone’s biochemistry.

Scans = can help researchers to identify the functions of specific brain regions.

Question 7

Positives of the biological approach

Answer 7

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Question 8

Negatives of the biological approach

Answer 8

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