The biological approach

Question 1

Assumptions

Answer 1

The mind and the body are one and the same.

Question 2

The neurochemical basis of behaviour

Answer 2

Thought and behaviour depends on chemicals (neurotransmitters e.g. serotonin).

Question 3

The genetic basis of behaviour

Answer 3

Concordance between MZ and DZ twins show genetic basis of psychological characteristics.

Question 4

Genotype and phenotype

Answer 4

Genes vs expression of genes in environment (nature vs nurture).

Question 5

Evolution and behaviour

Answer 5

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

Question 6

EVALUATION: Real-world application

Answer 6

Understanding of biochemical processes is associated with the development of psychoactive drugs.

Question 7

EVALUATION: Counterpoint to real-world application

Answer 7

Antidepressants do not work for everyone (Cipriani et al.).

Question 8

EVALUATION: Scientific methods

Answer 8

Precise and objective methods e.g. scanning techniques such as fMRI and EGGs.

Question 9

EVALUATION: Biological determinism

Answer 9

See human behaviour as governed by internal genetically-determined factors, an oversimplification

Question 10

EVALUATION: Natural selection

Answer 10

Popper claims theory of natural selection can’t be falsified, but fossil record is supportive.