The Biological Approach

Question 1

Assumptions

Answer 1

Everything psychological is biological, to understand it we must look to biological structures and processes within the body.

Question 2

The genetic basis of behaviour

Answer 2

Study whether behavioural characteristics are inherited the same as physical characteristics. Twin studies are used to deter main the likelihood that certain traits have a generic basis by comparing the concordance rates between twins.

Identical twins(monozygotic) are found to have higher concordance rates that non-identical(dizygotic)twins this would suggest a generic basis.

Question 3

Genotype and Phenotype

Answer 3

Genotype is actual genetic make up, phenotype is the way the genes are expressed through physical, behavioural and psychological characteristics.

Biological psychologist would accept that much of human behaviour depends upon an interaction between inherited factors and the environment.

Question 4

Evolution and behaviour

Answer 4

Darwin proposed the theory of natural selection, any genetically determined behaviour that enhances an individual’s survival will continue in future generations. In nature no one decides and this takes place naturally, the selection occurs simply because some gratis give the possessor certain advantages. The possessor is more likely to survive, reproduce and pass on these traits.

Question 5

Evaluation of biological approach

Answer 5

1. Scientific methods used such as fMRIs and twin studies. This means that the approach is based on reliable data
2. Real life application! Understanding has lead to development of drugs.
3. The biological approach is claiming to have discovered causes where only an association exists