Biological approach

• Biological approach

  • Our thinking and behavior are strongly determined by biological factors.
• Genetic factors refer to inherited characteristics that are passed down from one generation to the next. Genes, which are segments of DNA, code for various traits – from eye colour to the structure of our nervous system. Our bodies are composed of cells that contain DNA, which ultimately creates proteins that determine specific traits.

  
  

  Alleles are different versions of a gene. When a gene has different alleles, that trait has genetic variation.
• To determine the involvement of genetic factors we use twin studies.

  Comparing the concordance rate of monozygotic twins and dizygotic twins. For example, Mcguffin found that 46% concordance rate for depression in monozygotic twins and only 20% in dizygotic.

  
  

  Monozygotic twins may share more of their environment than dizygotic twins because they tend to be treated more similarly by their friends and family so the exact cause of depression may be partly because of their environment as well.
• Genotype: The genetic makeup of an individual.

  Phenotype: Physical representation of a persons genotype, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
• Evolution (Bowlby's monotropic theory.)

  Natural selection is the idea that certain genetic characteristics enhanced the survival and reproduction chances of an individual. These would then be passed on to the next generation and become more common in a population, traits that did not help survival chances will gradually disappear.
• Evaluation of the biological approach

  Limitation) It's argued that twin studies don't separate the influence of nature and nurture because although monozygotic twins have higher concordance rates than dizygotic twins, this could be due not only to their identical genetic makeup, but also because they are treated more similar by their parents and others. This similar treatment could influence their behavioural similarities making it hard to tell whether genetics or environment is the main cause.
• Evaluation of Biological approach (II)

  Strength)Uses scientific research like fMRI, PET scans which produce objective data which can be replicated and peer reviewed.

  Strength)Based on the understanding we have on neurotransmitters, drugs have been developed to help treat mental disorders.
• Cognitive neuroscience

  The study of which parts of the brain are involved in different mental processes.

  Uses brain scans like fMRI which shows a picture that also measures activity in the brain.