BIOLOGICAL assumptions Flashcards
Assumptions
All thoughts and behaviour are affected by our body, especially the Brian. Everything we do and think can be explained in purely biological ways
Biological processes like brain activity can be measured using scientific equipment in a laboratory and help us make generalisations about causes of behaviour
All that is psychological is first physiological
Strengths
Sophisticated equipment used
Objective measures taken
Scientific
Practical applications - useful
High control
Weaknesses
Low ecological validity
Costly
Time consuming
Small samples
Reductionist
Determinist
Equipment
EEG: electrical brain activity
MRI: brains radio signals + builds map of brains structure
PET: injected, track radioactive blood through brain
CAT: X-rays and detailed images of body - internal organs, blood vessels and bones
EEG good and bad
Positive:
Sleep
No side effects
No prep
Inexpensive
Negative:
Uncomfortable
Wash hair
Anxiety can alter waves
MRI good and bad
Positive:
No prep
Diagnose certain things early
No side effects
Negative:
Keep still
Claustrophobic
No magnetic in room
Expensive
PET good and bad
Good
Small movements allowed
Inexpensive
Bad
Not as clear as MRI
Brain is radioactive
CAT good and bad
Good
Accurate and combines X-rays with computer tech
Painless and non invasive
Great diagnostic ability
Real time imaging
Quick
Bad
Concerns over radiation
Not suitable for pregnant
Not suitable children - radiation
