Biological area

• defining principles


  • the biological area suggests our behaviour is a result of our physiology (genetics, hormones, or brain structure and functioning)
  • it also suggests our behaviour/environment can impact on our physiology
• key concepts


  • brain plasticity
  • lateralisation of function
  • delay of gratification
  • regions of the brain
  • genetic predispositon
• strengths


  • highly scientific approach using standardised, replicable procedures
  • lab experiments allow higher control over extraneous variables (cause and effect can be established)
  • experimental methods are reliable
• weaknesses


  • maybe of limited practical use as biological factors are difficult to change
  • can often involve studying a single biological cause of complex behaviour (reductionist)
  • low ecological validity when lab experiments used