biological

• The biological approach views humans as biological organisms and are interested in the genetic basis of behaviour. The influences of behaviour include: genes, genotype and phenotype and the genetic basis. Genes are passed down from one generation to the next (heredity) and why offspring take on their parent’s characteristics. Genes determine particular characteristics (intelligence) but how this develops is based on the reaction of these genes, with other genes as well as the environment.
• The genotype is the genetic code ‘written’ in the DNA of a cell. The phenotype is the physical appearance of this inherited information. A direct relationship between them is not the case, for example eye colour. You could inherit the blue and brown eyes gene, but only the dominant of the 2 (brown) develops. Each individual possesses a unique combination of genetic instructions so we differ from each other in terms of personality, abilities etc. The more a trait is due to genetic factors, the greater the heritability (the about of variability of the trait in a population).
• There is also the influence of biological structures in the brain. The nervous system, with the central and peripheral nervous systems are connected and carries messages from one part of the body to the other. This is due to neurons which transmit nerve impulses as electrical signals. Many behaviours are under neuron control (breathing and eating). The brain is a big complex structure complied of 4 lobes, frontal, temporal, occipital and parietal.
• There are also influences of neurochemistry. When a nerve impulse reaches the end of a neuron, a neurotransmitter is released across the synapse. Some trigger the receiving neuron to send an impulse or to stop an impulse. These are exhibitory (action) and inhibitory (calm). Hormones are also included in behaviour, which are chemical substances produced by endocrine glands such as the pituitary gland. In response to the brain, hormones can be released into the blood stream, travelling to their ‘target cells’.
• A criticism of the biological approach is that its reductionist.

  The approach is criticised for its belief that complex behaviour can be broken down into genes, neurochemicals and hormones. For example many explanations of mental disorders, these factors are believed to be the main cause of these disorders.

  This therefore is a limitation as it fails to consider the effect of culture, cognitive and emotional factors that may be involved and have a significant influence on behaviour.
• A strength of the biological approach is the applications to the real world.

  It provides clear predictions about the effects of neurotransmitters on behaviour and therefore helped research into the development of effective drug treatments for disorders such as depression and the chemical imbalance. It also helps the research into circadian rhythms which can help the working conditions for shift workers.

  This demonstrates the value of the biological approach for the study of human behaviour.
• A strength of the biological approach is that it is highly controlled.

  Biological psychologist measure these bodily processes carefully, and can provide a cause and effect result. The brain and processes can be studied very carefully, allowing them to find the processes that lead to changes in behaviour.

  This suggests that it is a highly reliable approach due to the control and scientific methods used.
• A problem with the bio approach is the research suggesting a genetic basis for criminal behaviour and how this info may be used. Critics claim that this may lead to genetic screening of the population to identify who is genetically susceptible for criminal behaviour. This may create the danger that genes could be used as explanations for complicated behaviour even though the connections ofcriminal behaviour and genes is complex. But, this could help people, if they have the genetic predisposition for crime or depression, they can learn to avoid stimuli or get coping skills for protection.