Outline and evaluate circadian rhythms

Question 1

Summary

Answer 1

circadian rhythms is a cycle that occurs over a 24 hr periods

Circadian rhythms such as the sleep-wake cycle are controlled by internal and external factors. Endogenous pacemakers refer to the internal body clock: biological structures in the brain that affect circadian rhythms

Includes SCN which is a group of neurons, located in hypothalamus, that regulate actions of pineal glands. During darkness, pineal gland converts serotonin to melatonin, affecting the rhythms of the body

Exogenous zeitgebers are the environmental factors that affect circadian rhythms, e.g. light and social cues

Micheal Siffre (1975) spent 61 days and nights underground, deprived of natural light and found that his biological rhythm remained regular but the rhythms extended to just over 25 hours

Folkard (1985) used a lab experiment with 12 participants who lived in a dark cave for 12 days for 3 weeks and were unaware that the experimenters gradually sped up the clock . He found that initially, participants circadian rhythms matched the clock but it returned to normal by ignoring the clock and going to bed when tired.

Question 2

Strength

Answer 2

Strength of research into circadian rhythms is that it has practical application

Which is when the principles of a study can be applied in real life

This is because research suggests that disrupting our circadian rhythms on a regular basis has negative effects, such as reduced concentration around 6am, making accidents and mistakes more likely

Therefore, due to this research, preventative measures (such as scheduled breaks and rest) have been implemented to reduce accidents from occurring