The Biological Area

Question 1

State the principles of the biological area.

Answer 1

Behaviour is a result of our physiology (genetics, hormones, or brain structure and functioning). It suggests our behaviour/environment can impact our physiology.

Question 2

State the 5 concepts of the biological area.

Answer 2

• Brain plasticity
• Lateralisation of function
• Delay of gratification
• Regions of the brain
• Genetic predisposition

Question 3

State 3 applications of the biological area.

Answer 3

• Genetic screening for disorders.
• Rehabilitation after brain injury to restore functioning (based on brain plasticity).
• Biological treatments of disorders such as SSRIS, ECT or TMS to treat depression.

Question 4

State 4 strengths of the biological area.

Answer 4

• Highly scientific approach using standardised, replicable procedures.
• Laboratory experiments allow higher control over extraneous variables; cause and effect can be established.
• Experimental methods are reliable.
• Avoids ethnocentrism.

Question 5

State 3 weaknesses of the biological area.

Answer 5

• May be of limited practical use as biological factors are difficult to change.
• Can often involve studying a single biological cause of complex behaviour (reductionist).
• Low ecological validity when laboratory experiments are used.