Approaches- The Biological Approach Flashcards
How can behaviour be explained according to the biological approach?
Hormones, genetics, evolution and the nervous system
What can faulty genes cause?
Diseases that have psychological effects
Why do biological psychologists study genetics?
To see which genes make some people more likely to develop things like mental illness or addiction
What is the genotype?
The genes a person has
What is the phenotype?
The characteristics someone’s genes produce
Which studies are often used to study genetics?
Twin studies and adoption studies
What are PET scans?
Shows which parts of the brain are active during different tasks
What are CAT scans?
They detect damaged parts of the brain
What are MRI scans?
They provide detailed information about structure
What are fMRI scans?
Provide structural and functional information
What are 2 strengths of the biological approach?
- Can provide evidence to support or disprove a theory
- Can help develop biological treatments
What are 2 weaknesses of the biological approach?
- Doesn’t take other influences into account
- Can lead to individuals refusing to take personal responsibility
