Biological Influences

• Genetic predisposition -> we do not inherit illnesses but instead genes that risk being triggered by other factors.
• Neurotransmitter imbalances -> levels of chemicals communicating between neurons are too high or low, affecting behaviour.
• Physical health and serotonin -> exercise increases serotonin, improves sleep and alertness.
• Mental health and neurotransmitters -> high dopamine linked to optimism neurotransmitter imbalances (e.g. dopamine) linked to schizophrenia.
• Evaluation of biological approach to health (positives) -> practical uses (medicine or exercise can help hormone imbalances), support for effectiveness, genetic explanation includes the role of environment.
• Evaluation of biological approach to health (negatives) -> incomplete explanation- oversimplifies causes of health/illness, e.g. genes influence lifestyle (smoking, etc), so only indirect influence on health/ illness.