Biological

Question 1

Outline the main assumptions of the biological approach?

Answer 1

• suggests everything psychological links to our biology
• looks at biological structures such as genes, neurochemistry + nervous system
• sees mental processes as part of the physical brain

Question 2

How is inheritance of genes studied in the biological approach?

Answer 2

Twin studies - compare concordance rates of monozygotic (share 100% of DNA) and dizygotic (share 50%) twins

Question 3

Define genotype and phenotype

Answer 3

-Genotype = genetic code in DNA
-Phenotype = how genes are expressed through interaction of genetic and environmental factors

Question 4

Give examples of evolutionary explanations for psychological traits

Answer 4

• memory —> remember locations, people + skills, what is dangerous
• neophobia —> avoiding poisonous/inedible foods
  -strong attachment to caregivers —> get more food and protection

Question 5

What are strengths of the biological approach?

Answer 5

+ Real life application - led to the development of psychoactive drugs such as anti depressants
+ Scientific method - uses objective + controlled methods such as twin studies, brain scans, lab studies

Question 6

What are limitations of the biological approach?

Answer 6

–Deterministic - suggests all human behaviour is innate and determined by genes; may have implications for justice system as people may lose responsibility
–Correlational research - research suggests a relationship between two factors but we cannot draw a causal link, other factors may be involved
–Reductionist - only focuses on biological factors, ignoring other factors such as environment