Biological Approach SAQ + HL

Question 1

Hormones: key term

Answer 1

Hormones are produced by endocrine glands and are released into the bloodstream; they activate target cells located at a long distance.

When a hormone binds to a receptor cell, it launches a sequence of changes, some of which are genomic: gene activation or suppression.

This means that although hormones do not have a direct influence on behaviour, they change the probability that a certain behaviour will occur in response to a specific environmental stimulus.

Question 2

Hormones: answer

Answer 2

Oxytocin is an example of a hormone produced in the hypothalamus of the brain and secreted by the pituitary gland.

It plays a role in sexual reproduction, childbirth, and social bonding; for example, one of its main functions is to prepare a pregnant woman for childbirth and breastfeeding, as it is increased during labour and lactation.

Oxytocin has an important effect in human social bonding, and specifically has been shown to increase trust, affection, and cooperation in human behaviour.

Question 3

Hormones: example study

Answer 3

Baumgartner et al. 2008