Biological Approach

The Biological Approach

Assumptions

• V Everything psychological is initially biological

• Understanding human behavior requires examining biological structures and processes

• Mind resides in the brain, making thoughts, feelings, and behavior have a physical basis

Neurochemical Basis of Behavior

• Neurochemistry involves brain chemicals affecting thought and behavior

• Chemical transmission in the brain occurs through neurotransmitters

• Imbalances in neurochemicals linked to mental disorders like OCD and schizophrenia

Genetic Basis of Behavior

• Psychological traits, like intelligence, are inherited akin to physical traits

• Twin studies examine genetic influence on characteristics through concordance rates

• Genotype (genetic makeup) and phenotype (expressed characteristics) interaction influences behavior

Evolution and Behavior

• Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection explains evolution

• Genetically determined behaviors enhancing survival and reproduction are naturally selected

• Traits advantageous for survival and reproduction are passed on through generations

Evaluation of the Biological Approach

Real-world application

• Strength: Real-world application of the biological approach

  • Understanding neurochemical processes in the brain

  • Use of psychoactive drugs to treat mental disorders

  • Example: Treatment of clinical depression with antidepressant drugs

  • Promotion of managing conditions and community living

• Counterpoint: Limitation of antidepressant drugs

  • Not effective for everyone

  • Study by Andrea Cipriani et al. (2018) showing variations in effectiveness

  • Challenges the value of the biological approach

Scientific methods

• Strength: Utilization of scientific methods

  • Investigation of genetic and biological basis of behavior

  • Use of precise and objective methods like fMRIs and EEGs

  • Accurate measurement of physiological and neural processes

  • Reliance on objective and reliable data

Biological determinism

• Limitation: Biological determinism

  • Behavior seen as governed by internal, genetic causes

  • Lack of control over genetic influences

  • Influence of environment on gene expression

  • Overlooking environmental factors in behavior

  • Simplistic view ignoring environmental mediation

Outline: Natural Selection Criticisms and Evidence

• Introduction

  • Brief overview of natural selection theory

  • Mention of critics like Karl Popper questioning its falsifiability

• Criticism of Falsifiability

  • Explanation of Karl Popper's argument

  • Difficulty in directly observing evolution in action

  • Challenge in providing empirical evidence to falsify the theory

• Supporting Evidence

  • Mention of fossil records as evidence

  • Example of dinosaurs evolving into birds

  • Other examples of observed evolutionary changes in species

• Debate on Substantiation

  • Discussion on the extent to which natural selection is substantiated

  • Consideration of the balance between empirical evidence and theoretical deductions

  • Acknowledgment of ongoing scientific research and debates

• Conclusion

  • Recap of the main points

  • Emphasis on the complex nature of evaluating the substantiation of natural selection

  • Mention of the importance of continued scientific inquiry and exploration