Biological Approach - APPROACHES Flashcards
three possible explanations of the biological approach
- behaviour explained by variation of genes
- behaviour is explained by levels of neurotransmitters
- behaviour is caused by neuroanatomical structure
what did Darwin suggest
behaviour can be explained by evolution - natural selection
what did Buss (1989) suggest that women prefer
a man with resources
what did Buss (1989) suggest that men prefer
young and physically attractive women
2 types of genetics within biological approach
genotype and phenotype
genotype
the information in DNA
phenotype
the physical traits DNA gives us
what do neurotransmitters do
send signals between synapses
what is created from neurotransmitters sending signals between synapses
all of our moods/feelings
examples of neurotransmitters
cortisol, dopamine, serotonin
what is the main function of dopamine
motivation
what is the main function of cortisol
energy
what does dopamine feel like
gives feelings of excitement or restlessness
what effects to low or high levels of dopamine have
low = can be positive high = can be dangerous (mental health)
where can cortisol pass to
every cell in the body
what does cortisol feel like
physical warmth, linked to fight/flight response
what does cortisol kickstart
the release of energy stored - cortisol burns the energy
brain structure (four parts we need to know)
frontal lobe, temporal lobes, parietal lobes, occipital lobes
what is the frontal lobe for
‘abstract thinking’ - speech, thought and learning
what are the temporal lobes involved with
hearing and memory
what do the parietal lobes process
sensory information - touch, temperature and pain
what do the occipital lobes process
visual information
