biological aproach

• What does the biological approach suggest about humans?

  Humans are biological organisms made up of physiological processes.
• According to the biological approach, where does the mind reside?

  The mind 'lives' within the brain and is not separate.
• What must be understood to explain behavior fully according to the biological approach?

  The actions of genes, hormones, neurotransmitters, and neurochemical mechanisms.
• What are heritability coefficients used for?

  • To quantify the genetic or biological basis of a characteristic.
  • Example: IQ has a heritability coefficient of 0.5.
• What does behavior genetics study?

  The influence of an organism's genetic composition on its behavior and the interaction of heredity and environment.
• What is an individual's genotype?

  An individual's genotype is their genetic make-up.
• What is an individual's phenotype?

  An individual's phenotype is the physical expression of their genotype.
• How does the environment interact with genotype?

  The interaction between the phenotype and the environment results in individual behavior.
• Can two individuals with the same genotype have different phenotypes?

  Yes, due to personal choices or the influence of epigenetics.
• What is epigenetics?

  Epigenetics is a change in gene expression without altering the genetic make-up.
• What are epigenetic markers?

  Epigenetic markers are changes like DNA methylation and histone tail modification left on DNA by environmental factors.
• What is natural selection?

  Natural selection is the mechanism of evolution where genetically-determined behaviors that provide a selective advantage are passed to future generations.
• What is an example of a genetically-determined behavior with a selective advantage?

  Avoiding fire and deep water.
• What does evolution refer to?

  Evolution is the process by which organisms change over time due to changes in heritable traits.
• What are the practical applications of the biological approach in mental health?

  • Development of psychoactive drugs for mental health disorders.
  • Targeting specific candidate genes or altering neurotransmitter levels.
  • Example: Chlorpromazine reduces dopamine action in schizophrenia.
• What is biological determinism?

  Biological determinism suggests that all behavior is caused by internal biological forces beyond our control.
• What are the implications of biological determinism for the judicial system?

  It could lead to diminished responsibility for individuals based on genetic factors.
• Why can't twin studies differentiate between nature and nurture?

  MZ twins share 100% of genes and often have similar environments, making it hard to isolate genetic effects.
• What does the biological approach use to measure the biological basis of behavior?

  The biological approach uses EEG, PET, and fMRI scans.
• How does the biological approach enhance the scientific credibility of psychology?

  • By using objective and systematic methods to measure behavior.
  • Through strict control of extraneous and confounding variables.
  • Family and adoption studies increase understanding of heritability.