Biological approach

Question 1

Assumptions of the biological approach

Answer 1

-there is a physical cause for our behaviour
-must look to biological structures & processes within the body
-three main biological factors: genetics, biological structures, neurochemistry

Question 2

neurochemistry on behaviour

Answer 2

-refers to the action of chemicals in our brain
-much thoughts & behaviour relies on chemical transmission in the brain
-occurs using neurotransmitters
-imbalance of neurochemicals has been implicated as possible cause of mental disorders e.g. low levels of serotonin = OCD

Question 3

Genetic basis of behaviour

Answer 3

-twin studies are used to asses whether certain physiological characteristics have a genetic basis
-achieved by analysing concordance rates (extent to which twins share same characteristic)
- expect MZ twins to be concordant if characteristic is genetic
not true for DZ, expect less concordance

Question 4

What is genotype?

Answer 4

a persons actually genetic makeup , what is ‘written’ in their DNA of the nucleus
-genotype is made up of genes inherited by both parents

Question 5

What is phenotype?

Answer 5

-the physical appearance of an individual as a result of both genes and the environment

Question 6

What do many biological psychologists accept?

Answer 6

-that much of human behaviour depends upon interaction between inherited factors (nurture) and the environment (nature)

Question 7

What is Evolution?

Answer 7

-refers to the changes that takes place as individuals become adapted to their environment

Question 8

Explain theory of natural selection

Answer 8

Darwin - individuals must compete with each other for access to resources
-those who survive go on to reproduce and pass characteristics onto their offspring (advantageous)

Question 9

What is a strength of the biological approach?

Answer 9

-uses the scientific method
-these include brain scanning techniques such as fMRIs & EEGs, twin studies & drug trials
-it is possible to accurately measure biological processes in ways that are not open to bias =based on objective data

Question 10

What us a limitation of the biological approach>

Answer 10

-it is deterministic
-sees human behaviour as governed by internal, genetic causes over which we have no control
-ignores the idea that individuals have a choice ( free will) of how to behave
-issue as it removes personal responsibility from people which may have implications
e.g. if a gene is ‘blamed’ for criminal behaviour this has implications for the legal system

Question 11

How does the biological approach have real life application?

Answer 11

-research into the role of neurochemistry
-associated with the use of psychoactive drugs to treat mental disorders
-e.g. promoted the treatment of clinical depression using antidepressants that increase neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain
-drugs associated with the reduction in depressive symptoms
-real world value