Eating behaviour - Biological explanations for AN

Question 1

WHAT ARE THE BIOLOGICAL EXPLANATIONS FOR AN?

Answer 1

neural and genetic

Question 2

basis for neural explanations

Answer 2

human behavior is governed by the brain and nervous system
includes activity brain structures, neurons and neurotransmitters.
neurotransmitters = chemical messengers

Question 3

basis for genetical explanations

Answer 3

genes consist of DNA
DNA codes our physiological and psychological traits
genes are inherited by the offspring from their parents

Question 4

what two ways do psychologists research genes

Answer 4

candidate genes
twin studies

Question 5

explain genetical explanation of anorexia

Answer 5

anorexia = genes
biological approach
nature rather than nurture
people are PREDISPOSED to anorexia
study genes in two ways
twin studies - concordance rates
also , look for candidate genes
overall anorexia = genetical

Question 6

what should concordance rates be if the disorder is genetical

Answer 6

rates should be higher in MZ twins than DZ twins

Question 7

what neurotransmitters are involved in AN?

Answer 7

serotonin and dopamine

Question 8

explain the role of serotonin in anorexics

Answer 8

1) anorexics produce too much serotonin which causes anxiety
2) so they starve themselves to reduce serotonin (food contains serotonin)
3) because of reduces in serotonin their bodies become sensitive to serotonin
4) so when they do eat, serotonin is produced and they get more anxiety than they usually would
% this causes them to starve themselves again causing a vicious cycle

Question 9

where are dopamine receptors in the brain?

Answer 9

basal ganglia

Question 10

explain the role of dopamine in anorexics

Answer 10

1) AN is caused by overactive dopamine receptors in basal ganglia
2) role is to interpret pleasure
3) eating causes dopamine to be released
4) anxiety provoking for people with anorexia because they’re sensitive to it
5) so they avoid eating