Approaches - Biological Flashcards
(54 cards)
What is the biological approach in psychology?
The biological approach argues that humans are biological beings, so their behaviour should be explained through biological structures and processes such as the hormonal and nervous systems, neurochemistry, genetics, and evolution.
What do biological structures include in the biological approach?
Biological structures include the hormonal system, the nervous system, neurochemistry (brain chemicals), genetics, and aspects of evolution that influence human behaviour.
What is the endocrine system and its role in behaviour?
The endocrine system is a body-wide system of glands that release chemical messengers called hormones. These hormones can affect both physical functions and behaviour.
How does the endocrine system respond in emergencies?
During the fight-or-flight response, the brain signals the adrenal gland to release adrenaline. This increases blood flow to the brain and muscles, reduces blood to digestion/skin, and prioritises quick thinking, attention, and reflexes.
How can hormones affect long-term behaviour?
Hormones like testosterone and oestrogen influence physical development and behaviour. For instance, testosterone is linked to male traits and is associated with increased aggression.
What are the main brain structures involved in behaviour?
• Brain stem: Controls heart rate and breathing
• Cerebellum: Coordinates movement and balance
• Cerebrum: Two hemispheres, each with four lobes
• Limbic system: Emotional centre (amygdala, thalamus, hippocampus)
What are the four lobes of the cerebral cortex and their functions?
• Occipital lobe: Visual perception
• Temporal lobe: Auditory information
• Parietal lobe: Sensory information
• Frontal lobe: Rational decision-making
What connects the brain’s two hemispheres?
The corpus callosum, a bundle of nerve fibres.
What is localisation of function in the brain?
Localisation of function is the idea that specific areas of the brain are responsible for certain functions, such as speech production, sensory processing, and decision-making.
What case study supports localisation of function?
The case of Tan, who could only say “Tan” due to speech difficulties. A post-mortem showed damage to Broca’s area. Later fMRI studies confirmed Broca’s area activates during speech in healthy brains.
What is the role of neurons in the brain’s biological structure?
The brain contains neurons (nerve cells) through which information travels electrically.
What is the synaptic cleft and its role?
Neurons don’t touch; the synaptic cleft is the gap between them. Electrical signals convert into chemical neurotransmitters that cross this gap to continue the signal.
What are excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters?
• Excitatory: Increase the likelihood of an action potential
• Inhibitory: Decrease the likelihood
If excitatory signals outweigh inhibitory ones, the signal continues.
How do neurotransmitters influence behaviour?
• Serotonin: Well-being and happiness
• Dopamine: Pleasure and reward
• Noradrenaline: Attention
• Glutamate: Learning and memory
What are SSRIs and how do they affect behaviour?
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are drugs that treat depression and OCD by increasing serotonin in the synaptic cleft, improving mood.
What evidence supports the effectiveness of SSRIs?
A meta-analysis by Soomro (17 studies, 3,097 participants) found SSRIs significantly reduced OCD symptoms compared to placebos, proving neurochemistry’s role in behaviour.
What is the role of genes in behaviour?
Genes are blueprints for making body components, including neurons. They influence how brain cells form and function, impacting behaviour.
What is one example of a genetic influence on behaviour?
The SERT gene affects serotonin transport and is linked to OCD, contributing to compulsive behaviours.
What are genotypes and phenotypes?
• Genotype: Genetic code
• Phenotype: Expression of the genotype
E.g. A person may have a genotype for aggression, which becomes a behavioural trait.
What does concordance rate research suggest about genetics and behaviour?
OCD concordance rates:
• General population: 2%
• First-degree relatives: 10%
• Dizygotic twins: 31%
• Monozygotic twins: 68%
Higher rates among close relatives support genetic influence.
What is the diathesis-stress model of mental health?
It proposes that a genetic vulnerability (diathesis) only leads to a disorder when triggered by stress (e.g. trauma, neglect, drug use).
What is the role of evolution in behaviour?
Darwin’s theory of natural selection explains that advantageous traits for survival and reproduction are passed on and become common.
How do evolutionary psychologists explain aggression?
Male aggression in early societies helped with protection and mate competition. Aggressive traits were passed on, possibly explaining modern male aggression.
What is a practical application of the biological approach?
Development of drug therapies (e.g. SSRIs) for mental disorders like OCD and depression. These help individuals recover and return to normal life.
