Biological Approach Explaining OCD Flashcards
Genetic explanations
Would say that OCD is inherited through genetic transmission. The approach says that an individual inherits a specific gene that relates to the onset of OCD and impacts the levels of neurotransmitters
Implications of dopamine
Dopamine has been implicated in the onset of OCD through research evidence
The particular COMT gene which regulates dopamine has therefore been linked to the condition
A lower activity results in higher levels of dopamine
The SERT gene
Affects the transport of serotonin creating lower levels of the neurotransmitter
Implication of serotonin
SSRIs (anti depressant that increases levels of serotonin) relieve symptoms of OCD
PET scans have shown low levels of serotonin activity in the brains of OCD patients
Grootheest et al
Meta analysis (2005)
Researched concordance rate of OCD between MZ twins
Analysis found that there was an average 45-65% concordance rate
Suggests that the genetic similarity of MZ twins relates to the onset of OCD and that there is validity to the suggestion that genetics plays a part in OCD
However not 100%
Neural explanations
Lead on from genetic explanations and suggest that abnormal levels of neurotransmitters lead to the development of OCD; predominantly dopamine and serotonin
Disthesis stress model
Suggests that the reason why not everyone that has the COMT or SERT gene develops OCD is because it is developed as a result of a genetic predisposition
Role of serotonin research
By Hu (2006)
Serotonin levels much lower in those with OCD
Supports the biological explanation that low levels of serotonin may be implicated in OCD
Lack of
Cause and effect
Undecided whether neuro abnormalities such as lack of serotonin are a cause or an effect
Main explanations
- Biological approach assumes that, similar to physical illness, abnormal condition are as a result of abnormal biological processes
- Two main explanations of OCD through this approach are genetic explanations and neurological
Worry circuit
Caudal nucleus normally suppresses worry signals from OFC to thalamus
Damage to nucleus results in over activity of worry circuit
Dopamine levels implicated