Biological approach: KC5 neurochemistry

Question 1

neurochemistry

Answer 1

activity of substances in the nervous system

Question 2

neurons

Answer 2

allow communication between nerve cells

Question 3

synapse

Answer 3

gap

Question 4

neurotransmitters

Answer 4

chemicals that are used in transmitting nerve signals across the nervous system

Question 5

serotonin

Answer 5

associated with functions. one being mood

Question 6

dopamine

Answer 6

associated in many functions

Question 7

hormones

Answer 7

belong to the endocrine system. they are produces in endocrine glands and released into the bloodstream

Question 8

adrenaline

Answer 8

this hormone is released during the acute stress response - ‘fight or flight’

Question 9

cortisol

Answer 9

this hormone is released during the chronic stress response

Question 10

name 2 strengths of neurochemistry

Answer 10

1. there is research to support that neurochemistry influences behaviour

McNeal found that low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin are linked to depression

2. has practical application so is useful

people with Addison’s disease cannot produce cortisol meaning their bodies cannot mobilise energy to deal with a chronic stressor, which can be life threatening

Question 11

name 1 limitation of neurochemistry

Answer 11

incomplete explanation

neurochemistry and the biological approach in general provide an incomplete explanation of behaviour as it doesn’t take in cognitive factors. eg, two people can experience the same stressor (eg. an exam) but their biological responses are different. this can occur because they think differently about the same stressor. therefore, other factors may need to be considered for it to be a full explanation