biological

• The biological approach believes if we want to fully understand human behaviour we must look to biological structures and processes within the body like genes and neurochemistry
• From the biological approach, the mind lives in the brain meaning all thoughts, feelings and behaviour has a physical basis. This contrasts to the cognitive approach which sees the mind as seperate from the brain
• Neurochemistry refers to the action of chemicals in the brain like neurotransmitters. An imbalance of neurotransmitters may be a cause of some mental disorders like low production of serotonin in OCD
• Psychological characteristics are inherited. Twin studies are used to investigate the genetic influences. Concordance rates between twins are calculated. There were higher concordance rates between identical (monozygotic MZ) twins (100% the same) than non-identical (dizygotic DZ)twins (50% the same) is evidence of a genetic basis
• • A persons genotype is their actual genetic make up.
  • Phenotype is the way genes are expressed through physical, behavioural and psychological characteristics. The phenotype is influenced by the environment. This suggests that much of human behaviour depends on the interaction of nature and nurture.
• Theory of evolution

  • Darwin proposed the theory of natural selection
  • Any genetically determined behaviour that enhances survival and reproduction will be passed on to future generations
  • Such genes are described as adaptive and give the possessor and their offspring advantages
• Evaluation

  One strength of the biological approach is it's real world application. Understanding of neurochemical processes in the brain has led to the use of psychoactive drugs in treating serious mental disorders. For example, drugs that treat OCD increase levels of serotonin in the synapse and reduce OCD symptoms. This means people with OCD are able to manage their condition and live relatively normal lives.
• Evaluation

  One strength is the use of scientific methods. In order to investigate both genetic and neurochemical factors, the biological approach makes use of a range of precise and objective methods. These include scanning techniques ,like FMRI, which assess biological processes in ways that are not open to bias. This means that the biological approach is based on objective and reliable data.
• Evaluation


  One limitation is Darwins theory of natural selection. Critics of Darwin's work, such as Popper, claim it is not possible to show evolution happening, only that it has taken place. However, others argue that natural selection is supported by fossil records. This suggests that although natural selection is not able to tell us what species will evolve into, it provides an adequate account of past development.