Biological Approach

• What does the biological approach assume about human behavior?

  It is dictated by biological functions
• How can human behavior be observed in the biological approach?

  Through chemicals, genes, or evolution
• What is neurochemistry?

  The action of chemicals in the brain
• What disorder may arise from a lack of serotonin?

  Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• What are genotypes?

  The actual make-up of the gene
• What are phenotypes?

  The physical, emotional, or psychological expression of a gene
• How do twin studies help in understanding genetics?

  They show if a gene has a genetic bias
• What is the genetic inheritance assumption for identical twins?

  They have 100% the same inherited genes
• What does it mean if a gene is dictated by inheritance?

  It is a nature gene
• What does it mean if a gene is affected by the external environment?

  It is a nurture gene
• How does evolution relate to the development of characteristics?

  It develops genes for survival
• What advantage does a gene that allows you to outrun an enemy provide?

  Increased chances of survival and reproduction
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the biological approach?

  Strengths:

  • Helps treat abnormal behavior
  • Identifies biological causes

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Reductionist view of complex behaviors
  • Cannot explain societal actions
  • Deterministic nature limits understanding
• Why is the biological approach considered reductionist?

  It simplifies complex thoughts and emotions
• What societal actions are not explained by the biological approach?

  Actions related to conformity
• How does the biological approach help in treating abnormal behavior?

  By understanding biological causes
• What does the biological approach allow us to work on besides treatment?

  Prevention of abnormal behaviors