Reductionism and holism

• What is reductionism?


  The belief that human behaviour can be broken down to simple points
• What is holism?


  Perceiving the whole experience
• What is biological reductionism?

  All behaviour is explained by molecules, genes and neurotransmitters
• What is environmental reductionism?

  All behaviour is due to stimulus-response relationships
• What are the three levels of explanation?

  Biological

  Psychological

  Social and cultural
• Why is reductionism necessary?

  To take a scientific approach
• What is a strength of biological reductionism?

  Can treat disorders
• What is an issue with biological reductionism?

  Ignores factors like environment and thoughts
• What is the mind-body problem?


  The body causes physical changes and vice versa
• What is the best approach to take?

  Interactionist approach
• What is a study of the interactionist approach?

  Anderson et al (1991) - combining drugs and CBTp is the best treatment for schizophrenia