biological approach Flashcards
what is the biological approach in explaining human behaviour?
it investigates biological and evolutionary factors as determinants of behaviour. this approach is often contrasted with psychological to socio-cultural explanations.
define ‘har determinism’ in the context of the biological approach
it is the belief that behaviour is determined entirely by biological factors, leaving no room for free will. this concept is associated with scientific determinism.
what is the diathesis stress-model?
it says that psychological disorders develop due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental stressors. this model highlights the interaction between nature and nurture
what is the significance of neurotransmitters in the biological approach?
the influence behaviour and can lead to conditions like depression or schizophrenia due to imbalance. for example, low serotonin is linked to depression.
what role do mirror neurone play in human behaviour?
they are associated with empathy and understanding others emotions. they activate others preforming an action.
what does APD stand for in the biological context?
antisocial personality disorder
APD is characterised by a lack of empathy and disregard for social norms
what is the difference between genotype and phenotype?
genotype refers to the genetic makeup, while phenotype is the expression of those genes and can be influenced by the environmental factors.
what is PKU?
a genetic disorder that can be managed through dietary restrictions. PKU results from an inability to metabolise phenylalanine, leading to harmful effects if untreated
what is the relationship between concordance rates and genetic relatedness?
higher concordance rates indicate greater similarity due to increased genetic relatedness. MZ twins typically have higher concordance rates than DZ twins
fill in the blank:
low serotonin is associated with__
depression
true or false: the biological approach solely focuses on environmental factors
false, the bio approach emphasises the role of genetic and biological factors.
what is reductionism?
the oversimplification of complex phenomena by focusing on individual components. reductionism contrasts with holistic approaches.
what is holism?
an approach that considers the whole system rather than just its parts. holism us often contrasted with reductionism.
who is phones gage and what significant event is associated with him?
he had a frontal lobe injury due to an accident. this injury led to changes in his personality and behaviour.
what were the reported effects of phones gages’s injury?
he became unreliable, disinhibited and experienced social and emotional changes. his case is often cited in discussions of brain function and personality
