Biological Approach

Genotype

The information in DNA

Phenotypes

Traits expressed a result of the genotype in our environment

Oxytoxcin (3)

Promotes bonding during breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact

Feelings of safety

Post-orgasm bliss

Serotonin (2)

Makes us feel “level”, satisfied and calm - emotional regulation and stability

Antidepressant drugs manipulate its action (blocks the serotonin transporter from reabsorbing so there is more seretonin available for longer)

Dopamine (2)

Causes nervous excitement, reward and thrill

This is linked to addiction

Cortisol (2)

Produces energy

Wake us in the morning & is released during “fight or flight”

Neurotransmitters (2)

Chemicals that carry signals between synapses (junctions between neurons)

All our moods/feelings are created in this way

What is evolution?

The changes in inherited characteritics in a biological population over successive generations

What are the 3 assumptions of the biological approach? (3+1)

Behaviour is influenced by the genes which are inherited

Behaviour can be explained neurotransmitters and hormones which affect the functioning of the brain + nervous system

Evolution influences behaviour - we gain behaviours which help with survival

These are often studied in cognitive neuroscience