ORUC ET AL (EVALUATIONS/ISSUES AND DEBATES)

Question 1

One strength of the study was that it had high reliability due to scientific objective methods

Answer 1

• Evidence: Employs objective data collection methods/analysis such as genetic molecular technqiues to analyse DNA samples. Which were analysed within a lab setting with automated equitment. Used biological markers like genetic polymorphisms/ serotonin levels.
• Effect: Highly objective, reliable and replicable and not subject to research bias.

Question 2

The study had strong validity due to use of control groups and matched pairs design groups

Answer 2

• Evidence= Used control groups and matched pairs designs.
• Effect=Allows for clear comparison between bipolar and non-bipolar groups to demonstate whether the findings where due to the condition or other factors. Minimises individual differences such as age, gender (which play a factor in bipolar disorder)

Question 3

One weakness of the study was that it had a limited sample size…

Answer 3

Small, limited sample: Only 42 bipolar ppts and 40 controls, all from Croatia.

Issue: Genetic studies need large, diverse samples for valid conclusions.

Conclusion: More research is needed with larger, cross-cultural samples to confirm links between serotonin gene polymorphisms and bipolar risk in females.

Question 4

One main weakness was the extraneous variable of age..?

Answer 4

Some ppts in the study were still young–so they could stilll go on to develop bipolar later in life. So, its possible those in the control may be pre-symptomatic– this could distort the results making it seem people with and without bipolar have similar rates of the gene variations — even though some of the “without” group may actually be future bipolar cases.

Question 5

Nature/ Nurture debate

Answer 5

• Nature- Attributes the illness to specific genes and biochemicals.
• Nurture- overlooks enviromental factors llike trauma/cognitive distortions (learned helplessness) or even the diathesis-stress model.

Question 6

Determinist/free will debate?

Answer 6

• It suggests that individuals with a family history of bipolar disorder are at a greater risk of developing a similar disorder. This removes the impact of free will and the idea that we have some control over the decisions we make and the circumstances in our lives.

However, Oruc’s findings only show a small genetic susceptibility for females , so there MUST be other causes of the disorder

Question 7

Applications to everyday life?

Answer 7

• Any research that helps to develop understanding of the causes of psychological disorders are significant as greater understanding facillitates treatment development.
• Study highlights there may be a genetic influence in the onset of BP-) so family members of someone with a diagnosis could be screened/ offered advice as early intervention.