biological approach

• limitation

  • twin studies cant differentiate between nature and nurture
  • MZ twins have high concordance for mental disorders
  • assumed because they share 100% of genes
  • but MZ twins likely to grow up in similar environments
  • may not only be genetic influences
• P: a strength of the biological approach is that is provides clear predictions

  E: this led to significant applications of biological research in the real world. research into the role of neurochemical imbalance in depression has led to the development of effective drug treatments.

  L: this further demonstrates the value of adopting a biological approach to the study of human behaviour
• P: the biological approach is criticised for its belief that complex behaviour can be broken down into the action of genes, neurochemicals and hormones

  E: many explanations of mental disorders are reductionist because genes or neurochemical imbalances are believed to be the main cause of these disorders

  L: however, whilst a reductionist approach lends itself to scientific investigation, we cannot fully understand a behaviour without also taking into account the other factors such as cognitive, emotional and culture that influence it.