Psychology A2 - biological

Question 1

genetic influences on health and illness

Answer 1

-genes inherited don’t determine health
-inherit predisposition, more or less likely to become ill, depends on other factors
-example, mental research for twins, depression = 37%

Question 2

cystic fibrosis

Answer 2

-affects glands which mae mucus
-causes build uo in lungs (breathing becomes difficult and infections occur)
-cause = faulty gene, born with it, gene from both parents
-1 in 25 = carriers

Question 3

neurotransmitters

Answer 3

-chemicals that allow communications between neurons
-can be imbalanced

Question 4

physical health and serotonin

Answer 4

-serotonin = mood booster
-increase by short, intense exercise and long, moderate exercise
-improve sleep and digestion

Question 5

mental health and neurotransmitters

Answer 5

-high levels of dopamine = happy
-depression is linked with low levels of serotonin –anti-depressants
-inherit genes, lower amounts of serotonin

Question 6

support for genetic predisposition
(evaluation)
+

Answer 6

-PKU - genetic disorder caused by mutation in a single gene
-interaction between genes and environment, genes predispose people to health and ill-health
-doesn’t cause it

Question 7

Kim-cohen and Gold (2009)
(evaluation)

Answer 7

-suggests some people inherit genes that makes them more resilient and have supportive relationships with others

Question 8

practical applications
(evaluation)

Answer 8

-knowledge of neurotransmitter imbalances led to practical ways of improving health
-example, physical activity for depression
-genes can’t be altered, lifestyle and environmental changes, reduce risk of disease

Question 9

incomplete explanation
(evaluation)
-

Answer 9

-biological influences oversimplify causes of health
-example, genetic predisposition = indirect, doesn’t influence behaviour directly, influences lifestyle behaviours
-causes of health are more complex than stated