The Biological Approach

Question 1

The approach - (A01)

Answer 1

Assumptions - The mind and body are one and the same

The neurochemical basis of behaviour- Though and behaviour depend on chemicals (neurotransmitters e.g. serotonin).

The genetic basis of behaviour - Concordance between MZ and DZ twins shows genetic basis of psychological characteristics.

Genotype and phenotype - Genes versus expression of genes in environment (nature and nurture).

Evolution and behaviour - Natural selection of genes based on survival value and, ultimately, reproductive success.

Question 2

The Biological approach - Evaluation (A03)

Answer 2

Real-world application - Understanding of biochemical processes is associated with the development of psychoactive drugs.
Counterpoint - antidepressants do not work for everyone (Cipriani et al.).

Scientific methods - Precise and objective methods e.g. scanning techniques such as fMRI and EEGs.

Biological determinism - Sees human behaviour as governed by internal genetically-determined factors, an oversimplification.

Evaluation extra: Natural selection - Popper claims theory of natural selection can’t be falsified, but fossil record is supportive.