Biological Approach Flashcards
What is the concept that describes the process by which traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in a population?
Natural Selection
Natural selection is a key mechanism of evolution.
What are the two components that combine to form the observable characteristics of an individual?
Genotype and Phenotype
Genotype refers to genetic makeup, while phenotype refers to physical appearance.
True or False: All living things are related according to the theory of evolution.
True
This concept is known as common descent.
Fill in the blank: The process of _______ leads to the modification of species through inherited characteristics.
Evolution
Evolution is driven by mechanisms such as natural selection.
What does the term ‘Survival of the Fittest’ imply in the context of evolution?
It implies that organisms best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce
This phrase is often associated with natural selection.
What is a potential weakness of the biological approach in understanding behavior?
It ignores the influence of the environment on behavior
This approach may overlook cultural and situational factors.
What does the concept of ‘modification’ refer to in the context of evolution?
Changes found in fossils and biological chemistry
Modification indicates how species evolve over time.
What is a reductionist perspective in the biological approach?
It simplifies complex human behaviors to purely biological factors
This perspective may overlook the role of environmental influences.
What are the key assumptions of the biological approach?
- Genetic makeup influences behavior
- Evolution is central to understanding behavior
These assumptions highlight the role of biology in shaping human actions.
Strength, SE of hormones to explain behaviour
E- Carré et al: studied behaviour of a Canadian ice hockey team over a season and found evidence that when the team played at home, there were increased levels of testosterone.
E- This suggests that this hormone gave the players more energy in wanting to defend their home territory.
L- this therefore supports the biological approach that behaviour is a result of chemical processes in the body
Weakness, reductionist
P- Believes complex human behaviour can be broken down.
E- an example is through explanations of mental disorders.
E- critics argue we cannot fully understand behaviour without considering other factors that influence behaviour such as cultural or emotional factors.
L- this therefore suggests that the bio approach is a limited explanation for behaviour as it try’s to simplify the nature of human behaviour which is naturally complex.
Strength, application, drug treatments
E- research of neurogenic al imbalance in depression leading to antidepressants.
E- strength bc shows how biological theories can be applied practically when treating mental disorders.
L- therefore suggests bio approach has valid applications to explaining and treating behaviours
