Biological approach

• What is the biological approach to understanding behavior?

  It suggests that our behavior is due to biological factors in our body.
• How do hormones influence behavior according to the biological approach?

  High levels of testosterone are linked to aggression, while oestrogen regulates the menstrual cycle.
• What are the concordance rates in twin studies used to support?

  They are used to support the role of genes in behavior.
• What do MZ and DZ stand for in twin studies?

  MZ stands for monozygotic (identical twins) and DZ stands for dizygotic (non-identical twins).
• Why do MZ twins often have higher concordance rates than DZ twins?

  This supports the idea that genes play a significant role in behavior.
• What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?


  Genotype is the genetic makeup, while phenotype is the expression of that genotype.
• How can the environment affect phenotype?


  The phenotype can be influenced by environmental factors, such as nutrition and lifestyle.
• What are neurotransmitters?


  They are chemical messengers in the brain.
• What is the link between serotonin levels and mental health?

  Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression and OCD.
• Which brain structures are associated with OCD?


  Overactivity in the orbitofrontal cortex and thalamus is linked to OCD.
• What role does evolution play in behavior according to the biological approach?

  It suggests that behaviors can be adaptive and are influenced by natural selection.
• What is a typical research method used in the biological approach?

  Lab experiments are commonly used.
• What are the assumptions of the biological approach?

  • Behavior is influenced by biological factors.
  • Hormones, genes, and neurotransmitters play key roles.
  • Genetic concordance rates support the influence of genes.
  • Brain structures can affect behavior.
• What are the strengths of the biological approach?

  • High control in experiments.
  • Objective and scientific methods enhance reliability and validity.
  • Practical applications in understanding genetic influences and interventions.
• What are the weaknesses of the biological approach?

  • Low ecological validity due to lab settings.
  • Reductionist, ignoring environmental and experiential factors.
  • Patients have no control over their biological influences.
• How do drug treatments like SSRIs work for OCD?

  SSRIs increase serotonin levels by preventing its reabsorption.
• What does the evidence from twin studies suggest about psychological disorders?

  Concordance rates never reach 100%, indicating other factors influence disorders.
• What did Tienari's adoption studies reveal about schizophrenia (SZ)?

  Biological mothers with SZ increase the likelihood of their children developing SZ, supporting the role of genes.
• How does Tienari's study support both genetic and environmental influences on SZ?

  It shows a higher risk of SZ in children of biological mothers with SZ, but also indicates the importance of nurture.