• The biological approach: the influence of genes, biological structures and neurochemistry on behaviour. Genotype and phenotype, genetic basis of behaviour, evolution and behaviour.

What are the Basic Assumptions of the Biological Approach?

• Behaviour has a biological basis.
• Behaviour influenced by genes, neurochemistry, hormones and brain structures.
• Behaviour can be inherited genetically.

What is the Genotype?

• Genetic makeup inherited from parents.
• Collection of genes possessed by an individual.

What is the Phenotype?

• Observable characteristics and behaviour of an individual.
• Produced through interaction between genotype and environment.

Difference Between Genotype and Phenotype

• Genotype refers to inherited genes.
• Phenotype refers to observable characteristics produced by genes and environment.

What is the Genetic Basis of Behaviour?

• Behaviour is influenced by inherited genes.
• Similarities in behaviour between relatives suggest genetic influence.

What is a Concordance Rate?

• Degree to which relatives share a characteristic or behaviour.
• Higher concordance rates in identical twins suggest genetic influence.

What is Neurochemistry?

• Chemical activity in the nervous system that influences behaviour.
• Includes neurotransmitters and hormones.

Examples of Neurochemistry Influencing Behaviour

• Serotonin linked to depression.
• Dopamine linked to schizophrenia.

What are Biological Structures?

• Brain structures and nervous system involved in behaviour.
• Different brain regions linked to different functions.

Examples of Biological Structures Influencing Behaviour

• Hippocampus involved in memory.
• Frontal lobe involved in decision-making and behaviour control.

What is Evolution?

• Process through which inherited characteristics become more common over generations.
• Based on natural selection.

What is Natural Selection?

• Proposed by Charles Darwin.
• Individuals with characteristics that improve survival or reproduction are more likely to pass on their genes.

What is the Process of Natural Selection?

• Individuals show genetic variation.
• Some traits provide survival or reproductive advantages.
• Individuals with advantageous traits reproduce more successfully.
• Their offspring inherit those genes.
• Over generations the traits become more common.

What is an Adaptive Behaviour?

• Behaviour that increases chances of survival or reproduction.

Examples of Evolution Influencing Behaviour

• Attachment increases infant survival.
• Fear responses help avoid danger.
• Aggression may help competition and protection.

Biological Approach AO3 — Scientific Methods

• Uses brain scans, twin studies and controlled experiments.
• Increases objectivity and scientific credibility.

Biological Approach AO3 — Real World Applications

• Biological explanations led to development of drug therapies.
• Improved understanding and treatment of mental disorders.

Biological Approach AO3 — Biological Determinism

• Suggests behaviour controlled by biological factors such as genes and neurochemistry.
• May ignore free will and personal choice.

Biological Approach AO3 — Nature vs Nurture Criticism

• Biological approach may overemphasise genetic influences.
• Environmental factors also influence behaviour.

Biological Approach AO3 — Reductionism

• Explains complex behaviour using only biological processes.
• May oversimplify human behaviour.