Biological Approach

Question 1

Explain the role of evolution

Answer 1

Behaviours are as a result of adaptive responses to the demands of the environment. Traits that have allowed individuals to survive and reproduce have been passed down and have become widespread.

Question 2

Explain the influence of genes.

Answer 2

Genes carry instructions for particular characteristics eg, IQ. How the characteristics develops depends on it’s interaction with other genes and the environment.

Question 3

What is a Genotype ?

Answer 3

Genes carry instructions for specific behaviours and these are written within a phenotype. This is hereditary information.

Question 4

What is a phenotype ?

Answer 4

These are an individuals physical characteristics, which are a combination of genetic and environmental influences.

Question 5

What are the terms used to describe twins

Answer 5

Monozygotic = identical twins. Dyzygotic = non-identical twins.

Question 6

Explain the relationship between genes and behaviours ?

Answer 6

Genes mean that you have a higher chance of being susceptible to certain conditions and behaviours, however the environment influences you as to whether you will have the condition or exhibit the behaviours.

Question 7

Explain the influence of neurochemistry (neurotransmitters) ?

Answer 7

Action that takes place at the synaptic gap can influence behaviour. The nerve impulse can either lead to excitatory or inhibitory action in the brain.

Question 8

What is Dopamine and conditions it is related to ?

Answer 8

It is an excitatory neurotransmitter which is associated with drive and motivation. Research suggests that high levels of this are linked to schizophrenia and aggression.

Question 9

What is serotonin and conditions it is related to ?

Answer 9

It is a calming neurotransmitter and is in relation to the mood. Low level of serotonin can be linked to anxiety, depression and OCD.

Question 10

Explain the influence of biological structures on behaviour (brain structure)

Answer 10

Particular actions and behaviours can be pinpointed to particular areas of the brain.

Question 11

What have brain scans led to ?

Answer 11

The development of brain scans have allowed the use of imaging techniques to observe brain activity when completing tasks. This means we know what areas are involved in behaviours and tasks.

Question 12

What is the frontal lobe involved in ?

Answer 12

Speech, thoughts and learning.

Question 13

What is parietal lobe involved in ?

Answer 13

Sensory information, touch and pain.

Question 14

What is the occipital lobe involved in ?

Answer 14

Visual information.

Question 15

What is the temporal lobe involved in ?

Answer 15

Hearing and memory.

Question 16

Strengths of the biological approach

Answer 16

The use of scientific method, very scientific approach with objective methods used for example scans, drug trials.
It has useful applications to psychological disorders, eg drug treatments to correct chemical imbalances to minimises symptoms.

Question 17

Weaknesses of the biological approach

Answer 17

Reductionist approach, ignores other factors that influences behaviour (social, cognitive & culture).
Deterministic, suggests all behaviours have a cause and are caused by biological factors that we cannot control. Ignores free will and control of behaviour