Biological approach

• The Biological Approach


  The influence of genes, biological structures, and neurochemistry on behaviour
• Biological approach in psychology

  Focuses on the role of genetics, biological structures, and neurochemistry in influencing behaviour
• Our genes, brain structures, and chemical components play a significant role in shaping how we think, feel, and act
• Genotype


  An individual's genetic makeup, including the specific genes inherited from their parents
• Phenotype


  The observable characteristics and traits resulting from the interaction between an individual's genotype and their environment
• The distinction between genotype and phenotype is crucial in understanding how genetic factors influence behaviour
• Genetic basis of behaviour

  • Many behavioural traits have a genetic component
  • Twin studies show identical twins are more similar in behavioural traits than fraternal twins
• Behavioural traits with genetic components

  • Intelligence
  • Personality
  • Mental health disorders
• Behavioural genetics


  Explores how specific genes influence behaviour
• Researchers have identified certain genes associated with traits such as aggression, risk-taking behaviour, and social interaction
• Evolutionary psychology


  • Many behavioural traits have evolved over time as a result of natural selection
  • Behaviours enhancing survival and reproduction are more likely to be passed down
• Behavioural tendencies understood through evolutionary psychology

  • Altruism
  • Aggression
  • Mate selection preferences
• Neurochemistry


  The study of how brain chemistry influences behaviour
• Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers in the brain that regulate mood, cognition, and physiological functions
• Imbalances in neurotransmitter levels

  Linked to various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia
• Studying neurochemical substances on behaviour helps uncover the underlying mechanisms of psychological disorders
• The biological approach provides valuable insights into the interplay between genes, biological structures, and neurochemistry in shaping human behaviour
• Understanding the genetic basis of behaviour, evolutionary influences, and neurochemical processes can help develop interventions to improve mental health and well-being
• What is the main assumption of the biological approach to psychology?


  Everything psychological has a biological basis.
• Why must biological structures and processes be considered in studying human behavior?


  They help explain thoughts and behaviors.
• How can genetics be used to study behavioral characteristics?


  By examining traits like intelligence through twin studies.
• What do twin studies compare to determine the genetic basis of traits?


  The concordance rates between pairs of twins.
• What percentage of genes do monozygotic twins share?


  100%
• What percentage of genes do dizygotic twins share?


  About 50%
• What is the definition of genotype?


  The particular set of genes that a person possesses.
• What is phenotype?


  The characteristics of an individual determined by both genes and the environment.
• How do biological psychologists view the interaction of nature and nurture?


  They believe human behavior depends on both factors.
• Who proposed the theory of natural selection?

  Charles Darwin
• What does the theory of natural selection suggest about genetically determined behavior?


  It will continue in future generations if it enhances survival.
• What are the strengths of the biological approach in psychology?


  • Uses precise and scientific methods (e.g., fMRIs, drug trials)
  • Allows for accurate measurement of neural and biological processes
  • Based on reliable data
• Why is the biological approach considered deterministic?


  It sees behavior as controlled by internal biological causes.
• What are the implications of the deterministic view of behavior in the legal system?


  Criminals are seen as morally and legally responsible for their actions.