Biological approach Flashcards
Scientific methods of investigation
In order to investigate the genetic and biological basis of behaviour the biological approach makes use of a range of precise and highly scientific methods. Such as fMRIs and EEGs , family and twin studies and drug trials. With these it is possible to accurately measure biological and neural processes in ways that are not open to bias. Supports as data is reliable.
Real life application
Increased understanding of biochemical processes in the brain has led to the development of psychoactive drugs that treat mental illnesses such as depression. Therefore these drugs have revolutionised treatment for many. Strength because means that sufferers are able to manage their condition an allow a relatively normal life, rather than remain in hospital
Causal conclusions
Biological approach offers explanation for mental illnesses in terms of the action of neurotransmitters in the brain. Research has proven this as a particular drug reduces symptoms of a mental disorder and thus it is assumed that the neurochemical in the drug causes the disorder. This is like assuming that the cause of a headache is lack of paracetamol simply because taking paracetamol is effective in relieving symptoms of a headache. Discovering a association between the two factors does not mean that one is the cause. Limitation because this approach is claiming to have discovered the causes where only a association exists
Determinist view of behaviour
is determinist in the sense that it sees human behaviour as governed by internal, biological causes over which we have no control. This has implications for the legal system and wider society, One rule of law is that offenders are legally and morally responsible for their crime. The discovery of a criminal gene if there was such a thing may complicate this principle. For example Stephen Mobley’s defence against a murder change rested upon the fact that 4 generations of his family had suffered behavioural an personality disorders and his actions were genetically determined and beyond his control. However Mobley lost his case and was sentenced to death. Problem as if there was a criminal gene would carriers of it be judged more leniently in court?
Cannot separate nature was nurture
Identical and non identical twins all have the same genetic similarities. Therefore the biological approach would argue that the way they behave and look must be genetics. However there are confounding variables such as environmental conditions.. This means that nurture has more of a affect than nature. Problem as the only way to prove this is by separating twins at birth and raising them apart and then examine their concordance for specific traits and behaviours. But to do this deliberately would be highly unethical.
