ORUC ET AL (EVALUATIONS/ISSUES AND DEBATES)

Question 1

One strength of the study was that it had high internal validity….

Answer 1

• Evidence: Employs genetic molecular technqiues to analyse DNA samples. Which were analysed within a lab setting with automated equitment. Used biological markers like genetic polymorphisms/ serotonin levels.
• Effect: Highly objective and quantifable data, minimises research bias, inc accuracy.
  –)provides strong foundation for analysing the potential biological basis of bipolar.

Question 3

The study had strong internal reliability…

Answer 3

• Evidence= Used control groups and matched pairs designs.
• Effect=Allows for clear comparison between bipolar and non-bipolar groups to demonstate whether the findings where due to the condition or other factors. Minimises individual differences such as age, gender (which play a factor in bipolar disorder)

Question 4

One weakness of the study was that it had a limited sample size…

Answer 4

• Evidence= only 42 ppts with bipolar and 40 as the control. All from Croatia.
• Effect= Typically genetic studies require a large sample for accurate and valid analysis to take place, Thus more research is needed to confirm the link between polymorphisms in serotonin-related genes and inc risk in females. Reseach needed from multiple clinical settings/diverse geographic regions/ so insight into how bipolar manifests across cultures.

Question 5

One main weakness was the extraneous variable of age..?

Answer 5

• Evidence: Age range of 31-70 some ppts were young enough that they could be suceptible to the disorder but it hasn’t developed enough.
• Effect: Findings could be dependent on the sample selection, could change in an older populace. Effects replicability (would they get the same results?)

Question 6

Nature/ Nurture debate

Answer 6

• Nature- Attributes the illness to specific genes and biochemicals.
• Nurture- overlooks enviromental factors llike trauma/cognitive distortions (learned helplessness) or even the diathesis-stress model.

Question 7

Determinist/free will debate?

Answer 7

• It suggests that individuals with a family history of bipolar disorder are at a greater risk of developing a similar disorder. This removes the impact of free will and the idea that we have some control over the decisions we make and the circumstances in our lives.

However, Oruc’s findings only show a small genetic susceptibility for females , so there MUST be other causes of the disorder

Question 8

Applications to everyday life?

Answer 8

• Any research that helps to develop understanding of the causes of psychological disorders are significant as greater understanding facillitates treatment development.
• Study highlights there may be a genetic influence in the onset of BP-) so family members of someone with a diagnosis could be screened/ offered advice as early intervention.