Biological Approach Flashcards
What is the first assumption of the biological approach ?
Evolutionary influences
Based on Darwin’s theory of natural selection
Any genetically determined behaviour that enhances an individuals chance of survival and reproduction is naturally selected
Altruism- ensures survival of that individuals gene pool.
Biological preparedness
What is EEA?
Environment of evolutionary adaptiveness.
The environment to which any species is adapted and the selective pressures at that time.
What is assumption 2 ?
Localisation of brain function
Links to the idea that different areas of the brain are linked to different functions.
What is the 3rd assumption?
Neurotransmitters
Neurons are electrically excitable cells that form the basis of the nervous system.
One neuron communicates with another neuron at a synapse.
Message is relayed by chemical messengers (neurotransmitters)
Neurotransmitters are released from presynaptic vesicles in one neuron and will stimulate the other neuron. Known as synaptic cleft.
How do neurotransmitters effect health ?
Too little serotonin is found in people suffering with depression. This is because serotonin plays a role in our mood. Some antidepressants medications work by boosting levels of serotonin.
High levels of dopamine are associated with schizophrenia. This is supported by the idea that dopamine blockers reduce schizophrenic symptoms.
Biological explanation for relationship formation.
Evolutionary theory can also explain romantic relationships. Traits that enhance successful reproduction are naturally selected. Males look for women who are young and healthy (wide hips, smooth skin, glossy hair). Adds to the idea of physical attractiveness. Men mate as frequently as they can. Females look for traits that can provide resources needed for their offspring to survive. For example, food and shelter (having a good job.)
What are the functions of the Brain?
The cerebral cortex- surrounds the entire Brain.
Frontal lobe- thinking, creativity and personality.
Parietal lobe- receives sensory information i.e touch,pain.
Temporal lobe- memory processing and auditory information.
Occipital lobe- visual processing.
Why is the biological approach deterministic ?
The biological approach is determinist as it sees our behavior as caused entirely by biological factors over which we have no control.
What is a negative of the deterministic approach ?
encourages people not to take responsibility for their own actions and blame their genetic makeup.
What is a positive of the approach being deterministic ?
By understanding how the human mind works we can create therapies and treatment to help.
E.g neurotransmitter Serotonin leads to creation of serotonin booster.
Why is the biological approach nomothetic ?
Look for similarities that we share with others. Looks at how fluid around the brain are similar in murderers.
Strength of nomothetic ?
Considered to be very scientific as it is easy to replicate and you can generalise. Means that treatments developed from an approach can be widely applied.
Negative of nomothetic ?
Ignores individual differences. Only looks to make generalisations about behaviour.
What is nature ?
Behaviour is determined by innate factors (genetics) rather than social factors( environments)
What is a weakness of nature ?
Ignores important social factors that may have developed certain behaviours.
What is scientific ?
Scientific methods used with a hypothesis formed and tested.
What is a positive of the scientific approach ?
More likely to produce accurate results.
People are more likely to believe the results as they have been tested.
A negative of the scientific approach ?
Some ethical restrictions may mean it is difficult to use a scientific method.
