The Biological Approach Flashcards
What does the biological approach believe?
That behaviour is the result of physical processes within the body, primarily neurological brain activity but also hormonal factors. These processes are inherited genetically and are a result of evolutionary pressure.
How is the influence of genes on behaviour studied?
In twin and family studies, showing risk of disorders like schizophrenia increase significantly the more closely related people are to a sufferer
What’s a genotype?
The genetic material passed between generations
What’s a phenotype?
The observable characteristics or traits in an organism
How can neurotransmitters (such as serotonin or dopamine) influence brain/synaptic functioning?
Imbalances result in changes in behaviour such as aggression
What do hormones released by the endocrine system in response to stressors result in?
The fight or flight response
What is evolution?
The selection of genotypes that code for phenotypes that provide a survival and/or reproductive advantage
