Explain how the assumptions of the biological approach have been applied to therapy 6 marks

Question 1

What is the medical model in the biological approach to psychology?
para 1

Answer 1

The medical model in the biological approach assumes that psychological disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression, schizophrenia) have a physiological cause. It treats mental illnesses like physical illnesses, often using drug therapies to address the physiological factors behind them.

Question 2

How does the biological approach explain behaviour in terms of neurotransmitters?
para 2

Answer 2

The biological approach assumes behaviour is determined by neurotransmitters. For example, low serotonin levels are linked to depression, and high dopamine levels are linked to schizophrenia. Drugs can be used to increase or block neurotransmitter action, altering mood, thoughts, and behaviour.

Question 3

What does the biological approach say about localisation of brain function and behaviour?

Answer 3

The biological approach assumes behaviour is influenced by localisation of brain function, where different brain areas are responsible for specific functions. For example, the frontal lobe regulates mood and impulse control. This allows drugs to target specific brain regions to treat mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia.