Biological Approach

Question 1

Describe the Biological Assumption of ‘Evolutionary Influences’

Answer 1

Evolutionary psychologists explain human behaviour based on Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. This
theory states that species survive through natural selection; a process where those who are better suited to their environment tend to survive and therefore produce offspring.
The more evolved a person’s brain is, the more likely they are to survive in their ever-changing environment.
The genes that allow these individuals to be successful
are then passed to their offspring who will, in turn, also be
more successful. This means that genes within evolved families are more likely to be passed to each new generation. This is called ‘survival of the fittest’.

Question 2

Describe the Biological Assumption of ‘Localisation of Brain Functions.’

Answer 2

The cerebral cortex can be divided into four sections, which are known as lobes:
1. Frontal lobe: located at the front of the brain, responsible for problem solving.
2. Parietal lobe: located in the middle section of the brain, responsible for sensory processes such as pain.
3. Occipital lobe: located at the back of the brain, responsible for interpreting visual stimuli.
4. Temporal lobe: located on the bottom section of the brain, responsible for interpreting auditory stimuli.