1 strength + 1 weakness of bio app (5+5)

• Strength: scientific

  • P: Lucy might argue one of greatest strengths of biological approach is its scientific methodology.

  • E: approach relies on objective, measurable variables such as neurotransmitter levels and brain activity, which can be tested using tools like PET or fMRI scans. For example, Raine et Al (1997) used brain scans to compare murderers with non-murderers, offering strong empirical evidence for role of brain structure in aggression

  • E: scientific focuses increases reliability and validity of findings, making it easier to establish causal relationships. Means findings can be replicated, key principle in scientific research

  • L: lucy might argue that biological approach is valuable because it allows psychologists to study brain and behaviour in rigorous and controlled way, contributing to psychology’s status as a science
• Weakness: reductionist

  • P: Michael - key weakness of bio approach is that it’s overly reductionist.

  • E: it simplifies complex behaviours down to brain chemicals or genetic abnormalities, ignoring psychological, emotional, or environmental factors. For instance, schizophrenia often explained by dopamine dysfunction, but neglects individuals lived experience or social context. R.D. Laing (1965) criticised this, arguing it overlooks meaning of mental illness to individual

  • E: oversimplification can lead to treatments that address symptoms but ignore root causes such as trauma and stress. may also prevent a holistic understanding of mental health

  • L: Michael might claim while bio approach provides useful insights, it’s narrow focus limits its usefulness in understanding complex human behaviour