Assumptions Flashcards
Define the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by localisation of brain function’.
LOBF is the idea that certain parts of the brain are responsible certain functions when it comes to controlling behaviour.
Explain the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by localisation of brain function’.
There are 4 lobes in the brain. The frontal lobe is in charge of personality, decision-making and creativity whereas, the parietal lobe is responsible for sensory processing and spatial interpretation. The temporal lobe processes sound, memory and has Wernicke’s area (language comprehension). The occipital lobe processes visual information.
Give the example for the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by localisation of brain function’.
This has been proven through the research conducted on Phineas Gage where an iron pole was blown through his frontal lobe. He recovered very quickly however, as time passed, his family and friends stated that he became more aggressive and angry which was very different from his original personality. This shows that LOBF can influence behaviour due to the change in personality because his frontal lobe was damaged which controls personality.
Define the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by neurotransmitters’.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers which are passed from the presynaptic neuron to the postsynaptic neuron across the synapse.
Explain the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by neurotransmitters’.
Electrical signals cause neurotransmitters to be released from the presynaptic neuron which diffuse across the synapse as a chemical messenger and then are absorbed by the postsynaptic neuron. It’s then converted back into an electrical message and carries along the neuron.
Give the example for the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by neurotransmitters’.
The neurotransmitter ‘dopamine’ allows you to feel pleasure and satisfaction and can increase your attention span/memory. If you don’t get enough of it then you can become less excited about certain things.
Define the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by evolutionary influences’.
Evolutionary psychologists explain human behaviour based on Darwin’s theory of evolution, natural selection. This suggests that the inherited structure of the human mind is the product of evolutionary processes.
Explain the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by evolutionary influences’.
These psychologists believe that individuals with most suited characteristics to their environment are more likely to have evolved which means they are more likely to survive. Their genes are passed on to offspring who will also be more likely to survive. This means that genes in evolved families are more likely to be passed to each new generation (survival of the fittest).
Give the example for the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by evolutionary influences’.
A fear of the dark is an example of this. In the past, most predators hunted at night, when we are especially vulnerable to be attacked due to poor eyesight so it was important that ancestors stay safe during the night. If not, they would die but over time this fear became instinctual and has been passed down today.
Define the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by the tripartite model of personality’.
This approach states that personality is not one whole, it is split into 3 parts which are often in conflict (id, ego and superego).
Explain the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by the tripartite model of personality’.
The id is the ‘pleasure principle’ which is in need of instant gratification. This is present since birth and it is viewed to be the only part of the mind present as an infant. The ego is the ‘reality principle’ which takes care of something when it’s needed. It’s associated with reason/logic and deals with conflict between the id and superego. The superego is the ‘morality principle’ and it’s an image of what you want to become. The ego ideal derives from rewards and positive models and the conscience internalises punishments/warnings.
Give the example for the assumption ‘behaviour can be explained by the tripartite model of personality’.
Someone with a dominent id is often selfish and demanding and acts on impulse. They lack self-control and have outbursts of anger. Having a dominent superego means they have a submissive and honest personality. They often put others before themselves and are highly gullible.
