Biological Approach Definitions

Question 1

Define biological approach

Answer 1

An approach which emphasises the importancethat physical structures and processes inthe body have on our behaviour

Question 2

Define genes

Answer 2

Part of the cell that carries the information that makes you who you are. They are inherited from your parents

Question 3

Define genotype

Answer 3

This is a person’s genetic makeup, their unique combination of genetic material which has been inherited from parents

Question 4

Define phenotype

Answer 4

The physical expression of genes, the behaviour and characteristics we show. This physical expression is influenced by environmental factors

Question 5

Define twin studies

Answer 5

Researchers compare similarities for characteristics in identical twins (mz) with similarities for the same characteristics in non-identical twins (dz) as mz twins share 100% of their dna and dz twins only share 50%of their dna, a higher rate of similarity for a characteristic in mz twins compared to dz twins would indicate that this characteristic has a genetic basis

Question 6

Define concordance rates

Answer 6

The extent to which two individuals share the same characteristics

Question 7

Define biological structures

Answer 7

Are organs and systems that influence human behaviour

Question 8

Define neurochemistry

Answer 8

The study of chemicals in the brain that regulate and influence our mental processes and behaviour

Question 9

Define neurotransmitters

Answer 9

A chemical that is used to carry messages between neurons

Question 10

Define evolution

Answer 10

Refers to the gradual changes in inherited characteristics of a species over many generations, such as the way in which the mind has been shaped by pressures to survive and reproduce

Question 11

Define natural selection

Answer 11

The idea that genetically determined behaviour that increases a persons likelihood of survival will be chosen over others and so continue into future generations