Biological approach

Question 1

State the three assumptions of the biological approach

Answer 1

1. can only fully understand behaviour if we look to biological structures and processes within the body
2. our genes, neurochemistry and nervous system are the basis of any psychological process/behaviour
3. human behaviour is genetically determined through the process of evolution and natural selection

Question 2

Explain the difference between a genotype and phenotype

Answer 2

Genotype is an individuals genetic make-up whereas phenotype is the product of what happens once the genotype has interacted with the environment

Question 3

Give an example of how the genotype has interacted with the environment

Answer 3

diasthsis-stress model of schizophrenia. This model suggests that individuals may have a genetic predisposition (diathesis) towards schizophrenia, but the disorder only manifests if they experience stressful environmental factors (stress).

Question 4

Explain the difference between MZ twins and DZ twins

Answer 4

MZ twins share 100% of their genes, whereas DZ twins share 50% of their genes

Question 5

Define concordance

Answer 5

The presence of the same trait in both members of a pair of twins

Question 6

How do twin studies allow us to see the genetic influence on behaviour

Answer 6

• if MZ twins show a higher likelihood of sharing behaviour/disorders than DZ twins - suggests a genetic component
• this is thought to be because the only difference between the two pairs of twins is how genetically similar they are

Question 7

State 4 biological factors which influence behaviour

Answer 7

Genes, neurochemistry, nervous system and evolution

Question 8

What is an example showing the influence of neurotransmitters on our behaviour

Answer 8

Increased levels of dopamine leading to schizophrenia

Question 9

Give two examples of the influence of the nervous system on our behaviour

Answer 9

1. Damage to the limbic system - increased aggression
2. Damage to the Broca’s area - inability to produce speech

Question 10

What is an example of a behaviour that could have become widespread due to evolution

Answer 10

Aggression (MAO-A gene):
- aggression in our ancestry - more able to gather recourses and protect family= more likely to survive
- increased chances of reproduction
- genetics for aggression passed on through generations
- aggression becomes more widespread

Question 11

Define nervous system

Answer 11

Network of cells in our brain which act as our internal communication system- divided into PNS and CNS

Question 12

Define evolution

Answer 12

The gradual change in characteristics and behaviour of an organism due to the passing down of genes which provide organisms with an adaptive advantage

Question 13

Define neurotransmitters

Answer 13

Chemical messengers that helps transfer the electrical impulse across the synapse from pre to post synaptic neuron