L7 - The Biological Approach

Question 1

Key assumptions?

Answer 1

• Behaviour has evolved through evolutionary adaption
• The genes someone has influences behaviour
• Biological examination of animals provides info about human behaviour
• Biological structures + neurochemistry control & influence our reactions

Question 2

What is Evolution?

Answer 2

Behaviour that had adapted and changed over time through natural selection.
Natural selection is where desirable behaviours are selected in mates and reproduces. These behaviours will continue our ability to survive over time

Question 3

What is heredity?

Answer 3

• Characteristics are passed through generations by genetics.
• These can be physical and psychological

Question 4

How do you examine the extent of genes on behaviour?

Answer 4

• Study pairs of twins.
• Studies include comparing the likelihood of a behaviour occurring in identical twins to non-identical twins
• If MZ twins show a higher concordance rate, then there could be a genetic component

Question 5

What is Genotype and Phenotype?

Answer 5

Genotype - Refers to the genes an individual possess (an individuals genetic makeup)

Phenotype - refers to observable characteristics shown by an individual that are due to combined effects of genes and the env.

Question 6

What is the Nervous System divided into?

Answer 6

• Central Nervous System: consists of brain + spinal chord, acts as the centre from which a person is controlled
• Peripheral Nervous System: consists of Somatic Nervous System and Autonomic Nervous System.

Question 7

What does the Somatic /Autonomic system do?

Answer 7

Somatic - comprises muscles attached to the skeleton - used for movement

Autonomic - oversees bodily organs and is involved in fight/flight

Question 8

What does the endocrine system do?

Answer 8

• Maintains levels of hormones in blood released by glands
• Pituitary Gland is the most important one. It instructs other glands to secrete hormones when needed. It is located in the brain