Biological Approach To Explaining OCD

Question 1

What are the three different biological approaches to explaining OCD?

Answer 1

Genetic approach (genes)
Neurochemical approach (nts)
Neuroanatomy approach (brain structure)

Question 2

Describe the genetic approach to explaining OCD (6)

Answer 2

• the genetic approach would argue OCD is due to physical factors in the body such as genes, suggests OCD runs in families bc a genetic predisposition to OCD is inherited (1)
• OCD is polygenic meaning it is caused by a combination of genes that inc vulnerability to OCD (2)
• OCD is due to inheritance of one or more maladaptive genes (3)
• these are candidate genes which make an indv vulnerable to OCD, these are called SERT and COMT genes (4)
• the SERT gene is involved in transportation of seretonin, if mutated levels dec which is associated with with an inc in anx and OCD symptoms (5)
• the COMT gene is involved in regulation of dopamine in the brain, one variation that is more common in ppl with OCD inc dopamine activity which is associated with with compulsions in OCD (6)

Question 3

Describe the neurochemical/neural approach to explaining OCD (3)

Answer 3

• suggests OCD is due to an imbalance of nts, specifically low levels of seretonin activity as it is involved in maintaining a stable mood
• a mutation in the SERT gene causes seretonin to be recycled too quickly back into presynaptic neuron, before it can activate the post synaptic neuron
• the low levels of seretonin activity can lead to anx, this can be seen with obsessions in OCS

Question 4

Describe the neuranatomy/neural approach to explaining OCD (3)

Answer 4

• neuroanatomy refers to size, shape and function of certain areas in the brain and how they’re linked with OCD
• OCD is associated with faulty decision making in the brain such as abnormal functioning in the frontal lobe of the brain which are responsible for logical thinking and decision making
• it is also suggested parahippocampal gyrus functions abnormally in people with OCD and is associated with processing unpleasant emotions such as anx

Question 5

What are the three AO3 PEELS to evaluate the biological approach to explaining OCD?

Answer 5

Weakness - biologically reductionist
Strength - prac apps - SSRIs
Strength - scientific methods