Biological Approach

Question 1

Definitions

Answer 1

Our behaviour is strongly determined by biological factors

Question 2

Assumptions

Answer 2

The structure and functioning of the nervous system determine our behaviour.
This is in turn influenced by genetic and evolutionary factors.

Question 3

Genetic basis of behaviour

Answer 3

MZ twins have the same genes
DZ twins only share only 50% of their genes
If the concordance rate is higher in MZ twins than DZ twins, then we can say the characteristic we are studying is influenced by genetic factors.

Question 4

Genotype

Answer 4

Genes present in each of our cells

Question 5

Phenotype

Answer 5

The characteristic an indiviual displays

Question 6

Evolution and behaviour

Answer 6

Evolutionary psychology tries to understand human behaviour as a result of psychological adaptions and natural selections.

• > Geneticallly determined
• > Passed on from generation to generation to increase the chance of survival. e.g attachment, aggression

Question 7

Strengths

Answer 7

Uses highly scientific methods of study, reliable

It’s deterministic

Question 8

Weaknesses

Answer 8

Reductionist
Focuses on the nature side of nature v.s nurture
Ignores human emotion and motivation