biological approach

Question 1

define neurochemistry

Answer 1

action of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain

Question 2

what can cause mental disorders?

Answer 2

an imbalance of neurotransmitters

low levels of serotonin in OCD

Question 3

how are psychological characteristics inherited?

Answer 3

with a genetic basis

Question 4

how is the genetic basis of psychological characteristics tested?

Answer 4

twin studies and concordant rates

if a characteristic has a genetic basis you would expect monozygotic twins to be concordant in that characteristic

Question 5

what is the difference between genotype and phenotype?

Answer 5

genotype refers to the persons actual genetic make up, their genes

phenotype refers to how these are expressed, the environment has an impact on how genes are expressed

Question 6

apply the theory of evolution to psychology

Answer 6

evolution by natural selection - Charles Darwin

psychological characteristics that increase chances of survival will continue to be passed down the generations

characteristics that inhibit survival will die out

Question 7

biological approach AO3 - strength 1

Answer 7

real life application

development of drug treatments such as antidepressants

these increase serotonin at the synapse

useful as they increase quality of life and ability to function

Question 8

biological approach AO3 - CA 1

Answer 8

drug treatments have side effects which could impact quality of life negatively

brain chemistry alone is not responsible for disorders

so not the most effective form of treatment

Question 9

biological approach AO3 - strength 2

Answer 9

scientific approach

uses fMRIs and EEGs in their studies

high objectivity and internal validity

Question 10

biological approach AO3 - CA 2

Answer 10

difficult to isolate the role environment plays in psychological development

cannot assume biology is the root cause

cannot ensure all participants have had the same upbringing

Question 11

biological approach AO3 - weakness 1

Answer 11

lack of free will with a focus on biological determinism

Stephen Mobley case, MAOA gene making him more likely to be a criminal according to psychology

creating confusion in the justice system on how much responsibility criminals should take

Question 12

biological approach AO3 - CA 3

Answer 12

predictive validity

can identify those more inclined to criminal behaviour according to biology

they can be treated to prevent criminal behaviour