The biological approach

Question 1

What is the evolutionary basis of behaviour assumption

Answer 1

-Behaviour can be explained by natural and sexual selection that has shaped us physically.

Question 2

What is the assumption relating to biological structures and behaviour

Answer 2

-Studying physical structures in our biology relating to behavioural and psychological characteristics. (studying brain areas.)

Question 3

What is the assumption relating to neurochemistry and behaviour

Answer 3

-Study of how brain chemistry affects our behaviour and psychological functioning

Question 4

What is the assumption that genetics form the basis of behaviour

Answer 4

Investigating genetic basis for behaviour and identifying genes giving people certain traits or illnesses.

Question 5

What is the assumption relating to geno/phenotypes

Answer 5

Genotype- genes an individual posesses

Phenotype- observable traits or characteristics shown by the individual

Question 6

What are the strengths of the biological approach

Answer 6

+Theraputic applications- has lead to treastments for mental disorders- prozac for depression
+ Highly scientific- Helps people however some argue talking therapies are better

Question 7

Weaknesses of the biological approach

Answer 7

• Socially sensitive research- research raises ethical issues for example researching genes can lead to abortions
• A reductionist view- Assumes behaviour is understood by physical structures and chemistry of the brain, genes. excludes environmental factors