The Biological Approach

Question 1

What are the Main assumptions of The Biological Approach?

Answer 1

Provides biological explanations for all aspects of psychological functioning

Question 2

Define Heredity

Answer 2

The passing of genes from one generation to the other, this is why offspring ‘take after’ their parents

Question 3

What do behaviourists study

Answer 3

if behavioural characteristics,IQ,mental disorders,personality, are passed on like physical characteristics

Question 4

What are Twin studies

Answer 4

Twin studies are used to see what traits have a genetic basis and can be passed on.Concordance rates determine to what extent both twins share the same characteristics

Question 5

What are Monozygotic Twins?

Answer 5

Twins that share 100% of genes

Question 6

What are Dizygotic Twins?

Answer 6

Twins that share 50% of genes `

Question 7

Define Genotype

Answer 7

Physical genetic makeup

Question 8

Define Phenotype

Answer 8

How genes are expressed through physical, behavioural, psychological characteristics

Question 9

What is Natural Selection?

Answer 9

Charles Darwin first proposed the theory of natural selection.Natural selection is when a characteristic that is present in an organism that enhances its survival. This characteristic is then passed onto its offspring

Question 10

What are the Strengths of The Biological Approach

Answer 10

• Uses the scientific method
• Studies take place in highly controlled environments
• Provides clear predictions
• Led to significant real life applications

Question 11

What are the Weaknesses of The Biological Approach

Answer 11

• The approach is reductionist , so neglects other important aspects
• Many claim that established patterns of human behaviour have cultural origins