BIOLOGICAL APPROACH Flashcards
The nervous system
A complex network that includes the brain, spinal cord and a network of nerves.
Neurons
Cells of the nervous system specialised for communication.
Neurotransmitters
Chemicals. Used by the NS to transmit messages. Between one neurone to the next target cell
(another neurone/muscle cell/gland)
What does the biological approach focus on?
The relationship between our biological makeup and behaviour.
How does the biological approach aim to explain behaviour?
By reference to biological processes and systems (genetics, brain function, hormones and neurotransmitters.)
What is 1 assumptions of the biological approach?
Behaviours, emotions and, cognitions are controlled by biological systems/processes. (Brain functioning, hormones, genetics and evolution.
What type of biological processes and systems are behaviours, emotions and cognitions controlled by?
Brian functioning, hormones, genetics and evolution.
What is a 2nd assumption of the biological approach?
Similarities and differences between people. Can be understood in terms of biological factors. And their interaction with other factors.
What is a gene?
A hereditary unit or instruction , passed between parent and child, which are unique to every individual except identical twins. They determine bio structure/function.
Are behaviour, emotions and cognitions only dictated by genes?
biological systems are affected by environment, thus it is important to study how genes and the environment interact to produce behaviours, emotions and cognitions.
What is the biological approach
A psychological approach that emphasises the role of biological and physiological factors in behaviour and mental processes.
What is the role of genetics in the biological approach?
Aspects of behaviour, metal processes are inherited from our parents.
