biological approach

Question 1

neurochemical basis of behaviour

Answer 1

action of chemicals in brain e.g neurotransmitters transmit messages
imbalance of neurotransmitters may be a cause of mental disorders

Question 2

genetic basis of behaviour

Answer 2

psychological characteristics are inherited
twin studies investigate genetic influences - MZ & DZ

Question 3

genotype

Answer 3

actual genetic make up

Question 4

phenotype

Answer 4

way genes are expressed through physical, behavioural, psychological characteristics
influenced by environmental factors

Question 5

evolution

Answer 5

Darwin (1859) proposed theory of natural selection
any genetically determined behaviour that enhances survival & reproduction will be passed on to future generations (these genes are adaptive and give advantages)

Question 6

strengths

Answer 6

• real world application - drug treatments
• scientific methods like scanning techniques (fMRI)

Question 7

weaknesses

Answer 7

• drug treatment does not work for everyone
• determinist - see human behaviour as governed by internal, genetic causes which we have no control over but phenotype can be influenced by environment