The Biological Approach

• How does neurochemistry influence behaviour?

  • neurotransmitters - transmit messages between neurons
  • an imbalance of neurotransmitters causes mental disorders and can lead to a difference in behaviour
• What are twin studies used for?

  • twin studies are used to investigate whether certain psychological characteristics have a genetic influence on behaviour
  • this is achieved by analysing concordance rates - the extent to which twin share the same characterstics
  • Monozygotic twins = 100% identical
  • Dyzygotic twins = 50% share of the same gene
• What is a genotype?

  • the genetic makeup
• What is a phenotype?

  • physical characteristics and features
• What is evolution?

  • gradual change in inherited traits of a species over many generations through adaption to the environment, natural selection and survival of the fittest
• What is natural selection and survival of the fittest?

  • proposed by Charles Darwin
  • those who possess the advantageous genes are more likely to survive - girraffes and long necks/ naturally selected
  • survival of the fittest - those who have the strongest genes will survive and pass on their genes
• What are the strengths of the biological approach?

  • One strength of the biological approach is that it has real life application. Drugs can be made to treat mental disorders.
  • Another strength of the biological approach is that it uses scientific methods. This means that there is control over extraneous variables and based on reliable data
• What are the limitations of the biological approach?

  • a limitation of the biological approach is that it is biologically deterministic. Ignores the effect of the environment and is too reductionistic