Biological approach flashcards set 1

Biological Approach

A perspective in psychology that focuses on the influence of biology, such as brain activity, genetics, and biochemistry, on behavior and cognition.

Natural Selection

The process by which characteristics that are advantageous for a species' survival and reproduction become more prevalent in future generations, while less advantageous characteristics die out.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an individual, which influences their traits and characteristics.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics and behaviors of an individual, which are influenced by both genetic factors and environmental influences.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons at synapses, either inhibiting or exciting other neurons to achieve different responses.

Endocrine System

A communication system in the body that regulates the release of hormones into the bloodstream, which can influence behavior and bodily functions.

Animal Studies

Research methods that use animals, such as rats, to investigate biological mechanisms that govern human behavior when ethical guidelines would not allow human participation.

Case Studies

Research methods that involve studying individuals with behavioral abnormalities to understand the corresponding changes in biology and behavior.

Drug Therapy

Manipulating an individual's biochemistry through the use of drugs to influence behavior, with the aim of improving health and well-being.

Scans

Techniques, such as MRI, PET, and CAT scans, used to measure brain physiology and activity, helping researchers identify the functions of specific brain regions.

Twin/Family Studies

Research methods that investigate the heritability of behavior by comparing the likelihood of certain characteristics appearing in identical twins (MZ) versus non-identical twins (DZ) or other family members.

Reductionism

A criticism of the biological approach, suggesting that it oversimplifies complex behavior, thoughts, and emotions by explaining them solely through low-level biological mechanisms.

Consciousness

The state of awareness and subjective experience, which biology alone has been unable to fully explain.

Strengths of the approach

• Scanning research techniques are useful for investigating the functions of the brain: an organ with obvious involvement in our behaviour that would otherwise be unobservable.

• The approach presents the strong nature viewpoint of the nature-nurture debate.

• The experimental methods used (gathering empirical [i.e. observable] evidence) make this approach very scientific.

weaknesses of the approach

• The approach is considered reductionist; complex behaviour, thoughts and emotions are all equally explained by low-level biological mechanisms such as biochemicals and nerve impulses.

• Biology alone has been unable to explain the phenomenon of consciousness.

• An extreme biological approach does not account for the wide base of evidence that points to the influence of our environment (e.g. culture and society).