Biological Assumptions

Question 1

Neurotransmitters

Answer 1

Chemical messengers that relay messages at the synapse (Gap between neurons where neurotransmitter diffuses)

E.g. Serotonin, Dopamine, GABA, Noradrenaline, Oxytocin

Play role in mental health:

Serotonin = Mood, Sleep, Depression

Dopamine = Schizophrenia, so SZs may be prescribed drugs to lower dopamine

Question 2

Localisation of brain function

Answer 2

Areas of brain responsible for different things

Cerebral cortex = 4 lobes:

Frontal = Personality, Broca’s area (Produce lang)

Parietal = Receive sensory info

Temporal = Wernickes area (Understanding lang)

Occipital = Visual processing

Phineas Gage*

Question 3

Evolutionary influences

Answer 3

Evolution means human brains have adapted to needs of individual environments over time

This is done through natural selection (Any genetic behaviour that enhances survival is passed to offspring)

This may explain certain fears e.g. Nyctophobia, as it has become an inherited trait to be scared of the dark due to past survival instincts

Environment of Evolutionary Adaptiveness explains why humans have adapted to have large brains and can form relationships, as this enhanced survival during selective pressures in our environment