Biological Rhythms (A03)

Question 1

Strengths of Circadian Rhythms

Answer 1

• Explains why people struggle with shift work
  Bolvin found that those working from 4-6am have a decreased concentration span, leading to more mistakes and accidents
• Knowledge has helped with medicine
  Aspirin can be taken before sleeping to avoid heart attacks

Question 2

Limitations of Circadian Rhythms

Answer 2

• Most research into it is correlation not causation
  -Individual differences in circadian rhythms range between 13-65 hours

Question 3

Strengths of Ultradian Rhythms

Answer 3

• Knowledge helps improve age-related changes in sleep
  Practical application in highly controlled observations

Question 4

Limitations of Ultradian Rhythms

Answer 4

• Studies don’t show real sleep

Question 5

Strengths of Infradian Rhythms

Answer 5

• Supporting research through SAD

Question 6

Limitations of Infradian Rhythms

Answer 6

• Short term impacts of light therapy