Biological approach

• What does the biological approach suggest about psychological phenomena?

  Everything psychological is at first biological.
• Why is it important to look at biological structures and processes in understanding human behaviour?

  Because they provide a physical basis for thoughts and behaviours.
• How does the biological approach differ from the cognitive approach?

  The cognitive approach sees mental processes as separate from the physical brain.
• What do behaviour geneticists study?

  Whether behavioural characteristics are inherited like physical traits.
• What is the purpose of twin studies in behaviour genetics?

  To determine the likelihood that certain traits have a genetic basis.
• What does a higher concordance rate in identical twins compared to non-identical twins suggest?

  It suggests a genetic basis for the trait being studied.
• What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?

  Genotype is the genetic make-up, while phenotype is the expression of those genes.
• How can environmental factors influence phenotype?

  They can affect how genes are expressed in physical and behavioural traits.
• What is the theory of natural selection proposed by Charles Darwin?

  It explains that genetically determined behaviours enhancing survival will be naturally selected.
• How does natural selection work in relation to animal breeding?

  It is similar to how farmers select animals with desirable traits for breeding.
• What happens to traits if an individual survives but does not reproduce?

  The traits do not remain in the gene pool.
• What is the biological approach's perspective on scientific methods of investigation?

  It uses precise and high-quality scientific methods.
• What are some scientific methods used in the biological approach?

  fMRIs, EEGs, family and twin studies, and drug trials.
• What is a strength of the biological approach regarding treatment for mental illnesses?

  It has led to the development of psychoactive drugs for treatment.
• Why might the biological approach's claim of causation be considered a limitation?

  Because it assumes causation from correlation without definitive proof.
• What is a confounding variable in the context of the biological approach?

  Similar environmental conditions that affect behaviour in genetic studies.
• What does the biological approach argue about similarities in behaviour among family members?

  They must be genetic due to shared genetic similarities.
• What is the determinist view of behaviour in the biological approach?

  It sees behaviour as governed by internal biological causes beyond our control.
• What implications does the biological approach's determinist view have for the legal system?

  It complicates the principle of legal and moral responsibility for actions.
• What are the key terms associated with the biological approach?

  • Biological approach: Emphasizes physical processes in the body.
  • Genes: DNA coding for physical and psychological features.
  • Biological structure: Organization of parts forming an organism.
  • Neurochemistry: Chemicals in the brain regulating functions.
  • Genotype: A person's genetic make-up.
  • Phenotype: Expression of genes influenced by environment.
  • Evolution: Changes in inherited characteristics over generations.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the biological approach?

  Strengths:

  • Uses precise scientific methods.
  • Leads to effective treatments for mental illnesses.

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Claims causation where only correlation exists.
  • Cannot separate nature and nurture influences.
  • Determinist view complicates legal responsibility.