Biological Approach

Question 1

What is the biological approach

Answer 1

• Behaviour has evolved through evolutionary adaptation
• The genes an individual possesses influence their behaviour
• The biological examination of animals can provide useful information about human behaviour
• Biological structures and neurochemistry control and influence our reactions to the environment

Question 2

Biological approach (Biological structures)

Answer 2

The Nervous System is divided into:
- The Central Nervous System: This comprises of the brain and spinal cord which act as the centre from which the individual is controlled.
-The Peripheral Nervous System: This comprises of the somatic nervous system and autonomic nervous system. The somatic nervous system comprises the muscles attached to the skeleton and is therefore pivotal for movement. The autonomic nervous system oversees bodily organs and is involved in the fight or flight response.
The endocrine system maintains levels of hormones in the blood that are released by glands. The most important gland is the pituitary gland which is located in the brain. This is sometimes called the master gland because it instructs the other glands in the body to secrete hormones when necessary.

Question 3

Biological approach (Influence of genetics)

Answer 3

• Heredity refers to the idea that characteristics are ‘passed on’ from one generation to the next through our genetics.
• Genes carry the instructions for a particular characteristic
• Genotype - refers to the genes an individual possesses i.e. an individual’s genetic make-up.
• Phenotype - refers to the observable traits/characteristics shown by an individual that are due to the combined effect of genes and environment.
• Twin studies are used to determine the likelihood that certain traits have a genetic basis by comparing concordance rates between monozygotic and dizygotic twins.
• If the MZ twins show a higher concordance rate (shared behaviour) then there is argued to be a genetic component.

Question 4

Biological approach (Evolution)

Answer 4

According to Charles Darwin, our behaviour has adapted and changed over time through natural selection. This is where profitable behaviours are selected in mates and therefore reproduced. Over time, advantageous behaviours will continue which will continually increase our ability to survive.

Question 5

Biological approach (Neurochemistry)

Answer 5

• The main focus for the study of neurochemistry is on synaptic transmission
• A neurotransmitter is a chemical messenger that carries a signal between neurons

Question 6

Evaluation of biological approach (+)

Answer 6

1. Uses highly scientific methods of research. for example MRI/EEG scans are used to investigate the brain and the areas of the brain that are responsible for certain disorders/behaviours. This mean the findings are objective therefore the biological approach has reliable data.
2. Has real life applications- it has allowed for the development of many biological treatments for disorders such as anxiety/depression. Shows the approach has been applied to help people and improve lives

Question 7

Evaluation of biological approach (-)

Answer 7

1. Deterministic- claims that all thoughts and behaviour are caused by factors outside of our control. It ignores the idea of free will and that we are not simply pre-programmed by genes.