main assumptions

Question 1

biological approach assumptions

Answer 1

1. Behaviour, cognitions and emotions can be explained in terms of the working
   of the brain and the effect of hormones, genetics and evolution.
2. Similarities and differences between people can be understood in terms of
   biological factors and their interaction with other factors.

Question 2

cognitive approach assumptions

Answer 2

1. Information is processed through the same route in all humans: input – process –
   output, in a similar way to how information is processed by a computer.
2. People have individual differences in their cognitive processing, such as
   attention, language, thinking and memory. These processes can also help to explain behaviour and emotion

Question 3

learning approach assumptions

Answer 3

1. We all begin life as a blank slate. Experiences and interactions with the environment shape our behaviour and these changes are directly observable.
2. We learn through the processes of operant conditioning, classical conditioning and social learning. This can be understood using the stimulus–response model.

Question 4

social approach assumptions

Answer 4

1. Behaviour, cognitions and emotions are influenced by social contexts, social environments and groups.
2. Behaviour, cognitions and emotions are influenced by the actual, implied or
   imagined presence of others.