the biological approach Flashcards
(27 cards)
define genotype
- the genetic make up of an individual.
- a collection of genetic material that is passed from generation to generation
what is the biological approach
-views humans as biological organisms so therefore provides biological explanations of all aspects of psychological functioning
define genes
carry the instructions for a particular characteristic
define phenotype
- the observable characteristics of an individual
- this is a consequence of the interaction of the genotype with the environment
how the gene develops depends on what
it’s interaction with other genes and the environment
what is the nature-nurture debate
the extent to which a psychological characteristic is determined by genes or the environment
define heredity
- the passing of characteristics from one generation to the next through the genes.
- this is the reason why offspring take after their parents in terms of psychological characteristics
define heritability
-the amount of variability in a trait within a population that can be attributed to genetic difference between individuals within that population
describe the components of the nervous system
- the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)
- the peripheral nervous system (somatic and automatic nervous system)
what is the function of the nervous system
-carries messages from one part of the body to another using neurons
define neurons
electrical signals that transmit nerve impulses
describe the brain
- the largest part is the cerebrum.
- the outer surface of the cerebrum is the cerebral cortex which is responsible for thought and language.
define hormones
- chemicals that are produced by endocrine glands, which together make up the endocrine system
what does the presence of a hormone cause
a physiological reaction in the cell which alters its activity
what is dopamine
an neurotransmitter that is associated with our “drive”
adequate amounts of what are necessary to maintain a stable mood
serotonin
what did Crockett find out?
that when serotonin levels are low people display increased aggression
what did Charles Darwin argue
- over time organisms become adapted to their environment.
- evolution refers to the changes that take place in the characteristics of a population over time
what is natural selection
- individuals in a species have different characteristics, some of which are inherited.
- individuals have to compete with each other for resources.
- those who survive this competition and go on to reproduce will have the behaviours that will lead to survival and reproductive success.
- these behaviours will be passed on to offspring and will become more widespread in the population.
- through this process, successive generations will develop behaviours that are even more likely to lead to survival.
explain Buss’s study which was to do with evolution/natural selection
- studied 37 different cultures
- found universal similarities in human mate preferences.
- Women desired mates who could provide for offspring.
- Men desired young, attractive women.
what method does the biological approach use and what is the benefit of this?
- scientific method
- the studies are in high controlled environments=studies are able to be replicated.
- adds to the validity of the original findings.
- the use of Imaging has increased the precision of information on brain functioning.
what is the influence of biological structures on behaviour
many aspects of behaviour are under neuronal control; breathing, eating and sexual behaviour.
a strength of the biological approach
- it has applications.
- e.g. research into the role of neurochemicals imbalance in depression had lead to drugs which correct the imbalance and minimise depressive symptoms.
what do critics of evolutionary explanations claim that?
many established patterns of human behaviour have purely cultural origins with no survival or reproductive value.
