AO3 - Evaluation

• Why is biological reductionism a weakness of the biological approach?

  It is a biological reductionism. reductionism is the view that human behaviour can be explained by breaking it down into its smallest components. For example the biological explanation of depression suggestthats depression is caused by a low level of serotonin, while ignoring cognitive, emotional, cultural factors. there are other factors that contribute to depression so its a limit that it ignores the other factors
• What does biological reductionism imply in the context of human behavior?

  It breaks down complex human behavior into its smallest components, attributing it primarily to genetics.
• How does biological reductionism limit the understanding of human behavior?

  It excludes other factors that play a role in human behavior.
• What does the biological explanation for depression suggest?

  It suggests that depression is caused by low levels of serotonin.
• What factors does the biological explanation for depression ignore?

  Cognitive, emotional, and cultural factors that contribute to depression.
• Why is scientific methods a strength of the biological approach?

  It uses scientific methods in highly controlled environments. The biological approach uses experimental methods as its main method of investigation. Experimental studies took place in highly controlled environmets and used sophisticated imgaging and recording techniques including PET, MRI scans. Experimental studies are easy to replicate thus adding validitthe originaly to findings if they can be reproduced
• Why is the use of scientific methods a strength of the biological approach?

  It allows for experiments to be easily replicated, adding validity to findings.
• How has the biological approach been applied in real life?

  It has been used to treat psychological disorders like depression.
• What role do neurochemical imbalances play in depression according to the biological approach?

  They contribute to the development of depression, leading to drug treatments.
• What is the function of SSRIs in treating depression?

  They stop the reuptake of serotonin in the synapse, increasing serotonin levels.
• How do SSRIs alleviate symptoms of depression?

  By increasing the level of serotonin being absorbed in specific neurons.
• Why is real life application a strength of the biological approach?

  research into the role of neurochemical imbalances in depression has led to the development of drug treatments which correct this imbalance to minimise depressive symptoms. For example, SSRI's stop the reuptake of serotonin in the synapse and increase the level of serotonin being received by the postsynaptic neuron, alleviating the symptoms of depression. The biological approach has helped improve the quality of life for those suffering from depression by providing suitable durg treatment
• Why is social sensitivity a weakness of the biological approach?


  The biological approach is socially sensitive and can be potentially dangerous if used incorrectly. recent research has found a genetic basis for criminal behaviour which has led to concerns about how this information is being used. critics claim that this may lead to genetic screening to identify people at risk of criminality which leads to discrimination. individuals may be labelled as criminals because of their genes that they can't control