Definitions for comparing approaches

Nature

The view that behaviour is mainly influenced by genetic and biological factors that people are born with

Nurture

The view that behaviour is mainly influenced by environmental factors and experiences

Reductionism

Explaining behaviour by breaking it down to its simplest components, such as genes and brain processes

Holism

Explaining behaviour by considering the whole person and interactions of multiple factors

Determinism

The idea that behaviour is caused by factors outside an individual’s control, meaning every action has a cause

Hard determinism

Behaviour is completely determined by internal or external forces, leaving no genuine free will

Soft determinism

Behaviour is influenced by deterministic factors but people still have some conscious choice and responsibility

Free will

The idea that people are able to make their choices and control their behaviour

Idiographic

An approach that focuses on understanding the unique characteristics of individuals, often through detailed case studies

Nomothetic

An approach that aims to identify general laws and principles of behaviour by studying large groups and looking for patterns