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Flashcards in The biological approach Deck (104)
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1
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
An understanding of brain structure and function can explain our thoughts and behaviour.
From a biological perspective, the mind lives in the brain - All thoughts, feelings and behaviour ultimately have a physical basis.
This is in contrast to the cognitive approach, for example, that what?

A

This is in contrast to the cognitive approach, for example, that sees mental processes of the mind as being separate from the physical brain

2
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by what?

A

The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by:

  1. Genetics
  2. The central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord
  3. The chemistry of the body
3
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by genetics, the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord and the chemistry of the body.
1. Genetics:
Biological psychologists believe that the genes an individual possesses influence his or her behaviour.
This also means that there is a belief in the process of evolution.
It is believed that behaviour evolves how?

A

It is believed that behaviour evolves in the same way as physical characteristics through the process of evolutionary adaptation

4
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by genetics, the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord and the chemistry of the body.
1. Genetics:
Biological psychologists believe that the genes an individual possesses influence his or her behaviour.
This also means that there is a belief in the process of evolution.
It is believed that behaviour evolves in the same way as physical characteristics through the process of evolutionary adaptation.
This then leads to the idea that the examination of what can also usefully tell us about our own behaviour?

A

This then leads to the idea that the examination of animals can also usefully tell us about our own behaviour

5
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by genetics, the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord and the chemistry of the body.
2. The central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord:
The brain is seen as the main focus when explaining behaviour, why?

A

The brain is seen as the main focus when explaining behaviour, because it is seen to be the origin of how the world is seen and acted upon by an individual

6
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by genetics, the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord and the chemistry of the body.
3. The chemistry of the body:
Varying levels of the chemicals in the body found both in the brain and the body are thought by biological psychologists to be related to what?

A

Varying levels of the chemicals in the body found both in the brain and the body are thought by biological psychologists to be related to an individual’s behaviour

7
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by genetics, the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord and the chemistry of the body.
3. The chemistry of the body:
Varying levels of the chemicals in the body found both in the brain (what) and the body are thought by biological psychologists to be related to an individual’s behaviour?

A

Varying levels of the chemicals in the body found both in the brain (neurotransmitters) and the body are thought by biological psychologists to be related to an individual’s behaviour

8
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by genetics, the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord and the chemistry of the body.
3. The chemistry of the body:
Varying levels of the chemicals in the body found both in the brain (neurotransmitters) and the body (what) are thought by biological psychologists to be related to an individual’s behaviour?

A

Varying levels of the chemicals in the body found both in the brain (neurotransmitters) and the body (hormones) are thought by biological psychologists to be related to an individual’s behaviour

9
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by genetics, the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord and the chemistry of the body.
3. The chemistry of the body:
Varying levels of the chemicals in the body found both in the brain (neurotransmitters) and the body (hormones) are thought by biological psychologists to be related to an individual’s behaviour.
What are they believed to influence?

A

They are believed to influence reactions to the environment

10
Q

The biological approach sees behaviour as rooted in the physiology and biology of the body.
The core assumptions of the biological approach are that behaviour is affected by genetics, the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord and the chemistry of the body.
3. The chemistry of the body:
Varying levels of the chemicals in the body found both in the brain (neurotransmitters) and the body (hormones) are thought by biological psychologists to be related to an individual’s behaviour.
They are believed to influence reactions to the environment.
The chemistry of the body is a rapidly advancing approach in psychology, due to what?

A

The chemistry of the body is a rapidly advancing approach in psychology, due to:

  1. The progression of technology
  2. The understanding of researchers about how the brain and body work
11
Q

Hormones

A

Hormones are chemicals secreted by the endocrine system into the blood and other bodily fluids

12
Q

There are two key terms that help show how genetics can influence the development of an individual - What?

A

There are two key terms that help show how genetics can influence the development of an individual - Genotype and phenotype

13
Q

Genotype

A

Genotype is:

  1. The genetic makeup of an individual
  2. The particular set of genes that a person possesses
14
Q

Phenotype

A

Phenotype is the characteristics of an individual determined by both:

  1. Genes
  2. The environment
15
Q

Genotype is the genetic makeup of an individual and the particular set of genes that a person possesses.
It occurs at conception and provides the what for how that individual will develop?

A

It occurs at conception and provides the genetic code for how that individual will develop

16
Q

Genotype is the genetic makeup of an individual and the particular set of genes that a person possesses.
It occurs at conception and provides the genetic code for how that individual will develop.
Each individual is thought to have how many genes?

A

Each individual is thought to have around 100,000 genes

17
Q

Genotype is the genetic makeup of an individual and the particular set of genes that a person possesses.
It occurs at conception and provides the genetic code for how that individual will develop.
Each individual is thought to have around 100,000 genes.
The genotype dictates characteristics such as what?

A

The genotype dictates characteristics such as:

  1. Eye colour
  2. Hair colour
18
Q

Genotype is the genetic makeup of an individual and the particular set of genes that a person possesses.
It occurs at conception and provides the genetic code for how that individual will develop.
Each individual is thought to have around 100,000 genes.
The genotype dictates characteristics such as eye colour and hair colour.
Each individual, apart from who, has a genotype that is unique to them?

A

Each individual, apart from identical twins, has a genotype that is unique to them

19
Q

Phenotype is the characteristics of an individual determined by both genes and the environment.
With a physical characteristic such as height, the genotype dictates the maximum height an individual can reach, but environmental factors, such as what, will affect how likely the person is to achieve their potential height?

A

With a physical characteristic such as height, the genotype dictates the maximum height an individual can reach, but environmental factors, such as nutrition, will affect how likely the person is to achieve their potential height

20
Q

Phenotype is the characteristics of an individual determined by both genes and the environment.
With a physical characteristic such as height, the genotype dictates the maximum height an individual can reach, but environmental factors, such as nutrition, will affect how likely the person is to achieve their potential height.

An individual’s genotype might be that they have the genetic potential to be tall.
However, much like a planted seed, if the environment does not provide the optimum conditions, then the individual will not fulfil their potential to become tall.
Example

A

For example, there may be a period of poor nutrition or they may take a drug that inhibits their growth

21
Q

Phenotype is the characteristics of an individual determined by both genes and the environment.
With a physical characteristic such as height, the genotype dictates the maximum height an individual can reach, but environmental factors, such as nutrition, will affect how likely the person is to achieve their potential height.

An individual’s genotype might be that they have the genetic potential to be tall.
However, much like a planted seed, if the environment does not provide the optimum conditions, then the individual will not fulfil their potential to become tall.
For example, there may be a period of poor nutrition or they may take a drug that inhibits their growth.
This means that the phenotype is the height they actually become, not what?

A

This means that the phenotype is the height they actually become, not their genetic potential

22
Q

What is the expression of a genotype inevitably influenced by?

A

The expression of a genotype is inevitably influenced by environmental factors

23
Q

The expression of a genotype is inevitably influenced by environmental factors.
Example

A

For example, identical adult twins usually look slightly different, because one has exercised more or dyed their hair, ect

24
Q

The expression of a genotype is inevitably influenced by environmental factors.
For example, identical adult twins usually look slightly different, because one has exercised more or dyed their hair, ect.
Therefore, despite having the same genes, the way identical twins’ genes are expressed (the phenotype) is different.
This illustrates what many biological psychologists believe - that much of human behaviour depends upon an interaction between what?

A

This illustrates what many biological psychologists believe - that much of human behaviour depends upon an interaction between:

  1. Inherited factors (nature)
  2. The environment (nurture)
25
Q

Each individual is born with typically 23 pairs of chromosomes that have been inherited from their birth parents.
These are our genotype and form the basis for our development.
The work of geneticists and psychologists has suggested that there may be a genetic underpinning for certain behaviours.
Often the work is carried out on pairs of twins.
As monozygotic (MZ or identical twins) are 100% genetically similar, the likelihood of them both having a behaviour/disorder compared with the likelihood of non-genetically identical twins (DZ or dizygotic twins) gives an indication of what?

A

As monozygotic (MZ or identical twins) are 100% genetically similar, the likelihood of them both having a behaviour/disorder compared with the likelihood of non-genetically identical twins (DZ or dizygotic twins) gives an indication of how much the behaviour may be genetic

26
Q

Each individual is born with typically 23 pairs of chromosomes that have been inherited from their birth parents.
These are our genotype and form the basis for our development.
The work of geneticists and psychologists has suggested that there may be a genetic underpinning for certain behaviours.
Often the work is carried out on pairs of twins.
As monozygotic (MZ or identical twins) are 100% genetically similar, the likelihood of them both having a behaviour/disorder compared with the likelihood of non-genetically identical twins (DZ or dizygotic twins) gives an indication of how much the behaviour may be genetic.
If the MZ twins show a higher likelihood of sharing behaviours/disorders than DZ twins, then there is argued to be what?

A

If the MZ twins show a higher likelihood of sharing behaviours/disorders than DZ twins, then there is argued to be a genetic component

27
Q

Behaviour geneticists study whether behavioural characteristics, like what, are inherited in the same way as physical characteristics like height and eye colour?

A

Behaviour geneticists study whether behavioural characteristics, like:
1. Mental disorders
2. Personality
3. Intelligence
,are inherited in the same way as physical characteristics like height and eye colour

28
Q

Behaviour geneticists study whether behavioural characteristics, like mental disorders, personality and intelligence, are inherited in the same way as physical characteristics like height and eye colour.
What are used to determined the likelihood that certain traits have a genetic basis?

A

Twin studies are used to determined the likelihood that certain traits have a genetic basis

29
Q

Behaviour geneticists study whether behavioural characteristics, like mental disorders, personality and intelligence, are inherited in the same way as physical characteristics like height and eye colour.
Twin studies are used to determined the likelihood that certain traits have a genetic basis, by comparing what?

A

Twin studies are used to determined the likelihood that certain traits have a genetic basis, by comparing the concordance rates between pairs of twins

30
Q

Concordance rates

A

Concordance rates are the extent to which both twins share the same characteristic

31
Q

Behaviour geneticists study whether behavioural characteristics, like mental disorders, personality and intelligence, are inherited in the same way as physical characteristics like height and eye colour.
Twin studies are used to determined the likelihood that certain traits have a genetic basis, by comparing the concordance rates between pairs of twins.
If identical (monozygotic) twins are found to have higher concordance rates than non-identical (dizygotic) twins, this would suggest a genetic basis.
Why is this?

A

This is because monozygotic twins share 100% of each other’s genes, whilst dizygotic twins share about 50%

32
Q

Behaviour geneticists study whether behavioural characteristics, like mental disorders, personality and intelligence, are inherited in the same way as physical characteristics like height and eye colour.
Twin studies are used to determined the likelihood that certain traits have a genetic basis, by comparing the concordance rates between pairs of twins.
If identical (monozygotic) twins are found to have higher concordance rates than non-identical (dizygotic) twins, this would suggest a genetic basis.
This is because monozygotic twins share 100% of each other’s genes, whilst dizygotic twins share about 50%, the same as what?

A

This is because monozygotic twins share 100% of each other’s genes, whilst dizygotic twins share about 50%, the same as any siblings

33
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Initially, there is a random change, a mutation, in the genetic makeup of an individual that leads to a characteristic or behaviour occurring.
If that change means that the survival and/or change of reproduction are reduced for the organism, then what?

A

If that change means that the survival and/or change of reproduction are reduced for the organism, then the gene is not passed on

34
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Initially, there is a random change, a mutation, in the genetic makeup of an individual that leads to a characteristic or behaviour occurring.
If that change means that the survival and/or change of reproduction are reduced for the organism, then the gene is not passed on.
If it, however, increases their chance of survival and reproduction, then what?

A

If it, however, increases their chance of survival and reproduction, then it gets passed on when they reproduce

35
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Initially, there is a random change, a mutation, in the genetic makeup of an individual that leads to a characteristic or behaviour occurring.
If that change means that the survival and/or change of reproduction are reduced for the organism, then the gene is not passed on.
If it, however, increases their chance of survival and reproduction, then it gets passed on when they reproduce.
What does this mean?

A

This means that the mutation has been adaptive for the individual

36
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Initially, there is a random change, a mutation, in the genetic makeup of an individual that leads to a characteristic or behaviour occurring.
If that change means that the survival and/or change of reproduction are reduced for the organism, then the gene is not passed on.
If it, however, increases their chance of survival and reproduction, then it gets passed on when they reproduce.
This means that the mutation has been adaptive for the individual and it then has every chance of being adaptive for what?

A

This means that the mutation has been adaptive for the individual and it then has every chance of being adaptive for subsequent organisms

37
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Biological psychologists believe that psychological characteristics like intelligence and aggression were adaptive at the outset and therefore became part of the evolutionary process.
This process takes many generations to occur and so the process of one behaviour becoming part of the genetic makeup of humans is what?

A

This process takes many generations to occur and so the process of one behaviour becoming part of the genetic makeup of humans is lengthy

38
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Biological psychologists believe that psychological characteristics like intelligence and aggression were adaptive at the outset and therefore became part of the evolutionary process.
This process takes many generations to occur and so the process of one behaviour becoming part of the genetic makeup of humans is lengthy.
The behaviour in animals occurs, it is argued, in much the same way.
Biological psychologists therefore believe that examination of non-human behaviour is useful.

In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can do what?

A

Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can:

  1. Improve survival rates in some situations
  2. Increase access to resources
39
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Biological psychologists believe that psychological characteristics like intelligence and aggression were adaptive at the outset and therefore became part of the evolutionary process.
This process takes many generations to occur and so the process of one behaviour becoming part of the genetic makeup of humans is lengthy.
The behaviour in animals occurs, it is argued, in much the same way.
Biological psychologists therefore believe that examination of non-human behaviour is useful.

In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can improve survival rates in some situations and increase access to resources.
What does it also help to do?

A

It also helps to protect territory

40
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Biological psychologists believe that psychological characteristics like intelligence and aggression were adaptive at the outset and therefore became part of the evolutionary process.
This process takes many generations to occur and so the process of one behaviour becoming part of the genetic makeup of humans is lengthy.
The behaviour in animals occurs, it is argued, in much the same way.
Biological psychologists therefore believe that examination of non-human behaviour is useful.

In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can improve survival rates in some situations and increase access to resources.
It also helps to protect territory.
In finding a mate, what can this mean?

A

In finding a mate, this can mean that the individual becomes more attractive to potential mates

41
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
Biological psychologists believe that psychological characteristics like intelligence and aggression were adaptive at the outset and therefore became part of the evolutionary process.
This process takes many generations to occur and so the process of one behaviour becoming part of the genetic makeup of humans is lengthy.
The behaviour in animals occurs, it is argued, in much the same way.
Biological psychologists therefore believe that examination of non-human behaviour is useful.

In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can improve survival rates in some situations and increase access to resources.
It also helps to protect territory.
In finding a mate, this can mean that the individual becomes more attractive to potential mates and what does this therefore do?

A

In finding a mate, this can mean that the individual becomes more attractive to potential mates and this therefore increases the individual’s chance of reproduction

42
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can improve survival rates in some situations and increase access to resources.
It also helps to protect territory.
In finding a mate, this can mean that the individual becomes more attractive to potential mates and this therefore increases the individual’s chance of reproduction.

Evolution works in the same way for humans.
For example, being aggressive will, at some point in our ancestry, have been advantageous in terms of what?

A

For example, being aggressive will, at some point in our ancestry, have been advantageous in terms of:

  1. Survival
  2. Increased chances of reproduction for an individual
43
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can improve survival rates in some situations and increase access to resources.
It also helps to protect territory.
In finding a mate, this can mean that the individual becomes more attractive to potential mates and this therefore increases the individual’s chance of reproduction.

Evolution works in the same way for humans.
For example, being aggressive will, at some point in our ancestry, have been advantageous in terms of survival and increased chances of reproduction for an individual.
What was this perhaps due to?

A

This was perhaps due to:

  1. Acquisition of resources
  2. Protection of family
44
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can improve survival rates in some situations and increase access to resources.
It also helps to protect territory.
In finding a mate, this can mean that the individual becomes more attractive to potential mates and this therefore increases the individual’s chance of reproduction.

Evolution works in the same way for humans.
For example, being aggressive will, at some point in our ancestry, have been advantageous in terms of survival and increased chances of reproduction for an individual.
This was perhaps due to acquisition of resources and protection of family.
What does this in turn do?

A

This in turn increased attractiveness to potential mates

45
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can improve survival rates in some situations and increase access to resources.
It also helps to protect territory.
In finding a mate, this can mean that the individual becomes more attractive to potential mates and this therefore increases the individual’s chance of reproduction.

Evolution works in the same way for humans.
For example, being aggressive will, at some point in our ancestry, have been advantageous in terms of survival and increased chances of reproduction for an individual.
This was perhaps due to acquisition of resources and protection of family.
This in turn increased attractiveness to potential mates.
Why did this make the likelihood of passing the gene on much greater?

A

This made the likelihood of passing the gene on much greater, because there would have been more available and receptive mates

46
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the case of humans, we may have a genetic mutation that makes us physically more able and attractive and therefore the mutation is adaptive.
It is argued to be the same for behaviours.
Aggression is widespread in animal behaviour and can be seen to be adaptive in that it can improve survival rates in some situations and increase access to resources.
It also helps to protect territory.
In finding a mate, this can mean that the individual becomes more attractive to potential mates and this therefore increases the individual’s chance of reproduction.

Evolution works in the same way for humans.
For example, being aggressive will, at some point in our ancestry, have been advantageous in terms of survival and increased chances of reproduction for an individual.
This was perhaps due to acquisition of resources and protection of family.
This in turn increased attractiveness to potential mates.
This made the likelihood of passing the gene on much greater, because there would have been more available and receptive mates.
The genetics could then have been passed on to subsequent generations and the behaviour became more what?

A

The genetics could then have been passed on to subsequent generations and the behaviour became more widespread

47
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the 19th century, Charles Darwin proposed the theory of natural selection to explain the evolution of animals and plants.
What is the main principle of natural selection?

A

The main principle of natural selection is that any genetically determined behaviour that enhances an individual’s survival (and reproduction) will continue in future generations

48
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the 19th century, Charles Darwin proposed the theory of natural selection to explain the evolution of animals and plants.
The main principle of natural selection is that any genetically determined behaviour that enhances an individual’s survival (and reproduction) will continue in future generations - be what?

A

The main principle of natural selection is that any genetically determined behaviour that enhances an individual’s survival (and reproduction) will continue in future generations - be naturally selected

49
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the 19th century, Charles Darwin proposed the theory of natural selection to explain the evolution of animals and plants.
The main principle of natural selection is that any genetically determined behaviour that enhances an individual’s survival (and reproduction) will continue in future generations - be naturally selected.
This happens in a similar way to a farmer deciding which animals to use for breeding - the farmer selects the ones that possess desirable characteristics.
For example, if one of a farmer’s cows has a high milk yield, the farmer chooses this cow for further breeding, why?

A

For example, if one of a farmer’s cows has a high milk yield, the farmer chooses this cow for further breeding, so his stock of cows become progressively better milk producers

50
Q

Evolution and behaviour:
In the 19th century, Charles Darwin proposed the theory of natural selection to explain the evolution of animals and plants.
The main principle of natural selection is that any genetically determined behaviour that enhances an individual’s survival (and reproduction) will continue in future generations - be naturally selected.
This happens in a similar way to a farmer deciding which animals to use for breeding - the farmer selects the ones that possess desirable characteristics.
For example, if one of a farmer’s cows has a high milk yield, the farmer chooses this cow for further breeding, so his stock of cows become progressively better milk producers.

In nature, this selection takes place ‘naturally’ - no one ‘decides.’
The selection occurs simply because some traits give the possessor certain advantages.
The possessor is more likely to survive, reproduce and pass on these traits.
What happens if the individual survives, but does not reproduce?

A

If the individual survives, but does not reproduce, the traits do not remain in the gene pool

51
Q

What is the nervous system divided into?

A

The nervous system is divided into two parts:

  1. The central nervous system (CNS)
  2. Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
52
Q

What is the central nervous system (CNS) made up of?

A

The central nervous system (CNS) is made up of the brain and the spinal cord

53
Q

Peripheral nervous system (PNS)

A

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is the accompanying system running throughout the body that acts with the central nervous system (CNS)

54
Q

The central nervous system (CNS) is made up of the brain and the spinal cord.
What are these pivotal in doing?

A

These are pivotal in transferring messages to and from the environment

55
Q

The central nervous system (CNS) is made up of the brain and the spinal cord.
These are pivotal in transferring messages to and from the environment, but perhaps more importantly, they act as the centre from which what?

A

These are pivotal in transferring messages to and from the environment, but perhaps more importantly, they act as the centre from which all the physiology of the individual is controlled

56
Q

The central nervous system (CNS) is made up of the brain and the spinal cord.
These are pivotal in transferring messages to and from the environment, but perhaps more importantly, they act as the centre from which all the physiology of the individual is controlled.
What are all coordinated from the central nervous system?

A
  1. Breathing
  2. Eating
  3. The heart beat
  4. The senses
    are all coordinated from the central nervous system
57
Q

The central nervous system (CNS) is made up of the brain and the spinal cord.
These are pivotal in transferring messages to and from the environment, but perhaps more importantly, they act as the centre from which all the physiology of the individual is controlled.
Breathing, eating, the heart beat and the senses are all coordinated from the central nervous system.
This is why biological psychologists look to the brain for behaviour, why?

A

This is why biological psychologists look to the brain for behaviour, because most actions and reactions are generated from the central nervous system

58
Q

Why does the peripheral nervous system send and receive information to the central nervous system?

A

The peripheral nervous system sends and receives information to the central nervous system, because it is the nervous system for the limbs and torso that collect information from the environment in terms of:

  1. Temperature
  2. Pain
  3. Threat
59
Q

The peripheral nervous system sends and receives information to the central nervous system, because it is the nervous system for the limbs and torso that collect information from the environment in terms of temperature, pain and threat.
What is the autonomic system important for?

A

The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual

60
Q

The peripheral nervous system sends and receives information to the central nervous system, because it is the nervous system for the limbs and torso that collect information from the environment in terms of temperature, pain and threat.
The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual and affects what?

A

The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual and affects the reaction to threat, along with returning the body to normal after an acute reaction

61
Q

The peripheral nervous system sends and receives information to the central nervous system, because it is the nervous system for the limbs and torso that collect information from the environment in terms of temperature, pain and threat.
The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual and affects the reaction to threat, along with returning the body to normal (what) after an acute reaction?

A

The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual and affects the reaction to threat, along with returning the body to normal (homeostasis) after an acute reaction

62
Q

The peripheral nervous system sends and receives information to the central nervous system, because it is the nervous system for the limbs and torso that collect information from the environment in terms of temperature, pain and threat.
The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual and affects the reaction to threat, along with returning the body to normal (homeostasis) after an acute reaction.
What does the somatic system within the peripheral nervous system comprise?

A

The somatic system within the peripheral nervous system comprises the muscles attached to the skeleton

63
Q

The peripheral nervous system sends and receives information to the central nervous system, because it is the nervous system for the limbs and torso that collect information from the environment in terms of temperature, pain and threat.
The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual and affects the reaction to threat, along with returning the body to normal (homeostasis) after an acute reaction.
The somatic system within the peripheral nervous system comprises the muscles attached to the skeleton and is therefore very important in what?

A

The somatic system within the peripheral nervous system comprises the muscles attached to the skeleton and is therefore very important in movement

64
Q

The peripheral nervous system sends and receives information to the central nervous system, because it is the nervous system for the limbs and torso that collect information from the environment in terms of temperature, pain and threat.
The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual and affects the reaction to threat, along with returning the body to normal (homeostasis) after an acute reaction.
The somatic system within the peripheral nervous system comprises the muscles attached to the skeleton and is therefore very important in movement.
What does the somatic system also do?

A

The somatic system also receives information from the skin

65
Q

The peripheral nervous system sends and receives information to the central nervous system, because it is the nervous system for the limbs and torso that collect information from the environment in terms of temperature, pain and threat.
The autonomic system is important for survival of the individual and affects the reaction to threat, along with returning the body to normal (homeostasis) after an acute reaction.
The somatic system within the peripheral nervous system comprises the muscles attached to the skeleton and is therefore very important in movement.
The somatic system also receives information from the skin, for example what?

A

The somatic system also receives information from the skin, for example temperature of the environment

66
Q

Neuron

A

A neuron is a nerve cell that transfers information between the nervous systems

67
Q

A neuron is a nerve cell that transfers information between the nervous systems.
How many are there within the human body?

A

There are billions within the human body

68
Q

A neuron is a nerve cell that transfers information between the nervous systems.
There are billions within the human body and they vary depending on what?

A

There are billions within the human body and they vary depending on their job

69
Q

Endocrine system

A

The endocrine system is the system that affects the transfer and secretion of hormones throughout the body

70
Q

The endocrine system is the system that affects the transfer and secretion of hormones throughout the body.
The endocrine system is not part of the nervous system, but is important in terms of what?

A

The endocrine system is not part of the nervous system, but is important in terms of the biochemistry of the body

71
Q

The endocrine system is the system that affects the transfer and secretion of hormones throughout the body.
The endocrine system is not part of the nervous system, but is important in terms of the biochemistry of the body.
What is its main job?

A

Its main job is to maintain the levels of hormones in the blood and other bodily fluids

72
Q

The endocrine system is the system that affects the transfer and secretion of hormones throughout the body.
The endocrine system is not part of the nervous system, but is important in terms of the biochemistry of the body.
Its main job is to maintain the levels of hormones in the blood and other bodily fluids.
How is this done?

A

This is done by using the glands in the body

73
Q

The endocrine system is the system that affects the transfer and secretion of hormones throughout the body.
The endocrine system is not part of the nervous system, but is important in terms of the biochemistry of the body.
Its main job is to maintain the levels of hormones in the blood and other bodily fluids.
This is done by using the glands in the body.
What is the most important gland argued to be?

A

The most important gland is argued to be the pituitary gland

74
Q

The endocrine system is the system that affects the transfer and secretion of hormones throughout the body.
The endocrine system is not part of the nervous system, but is important in terms of the biochemistry of the body.
Its main job is to maintain the levels of hormones in the blood and other bodily fluids.
This is done by using the glands in the body.
The most important gland is argued to be the pituitary gland, which is located where?

A

The most important gland is argued to be the pituitary gland, which is located in the brain

75
Q

The endocrine system is the system that affects the transfer and secretion of hormones throughout the body.
The endocrine system is not part of the nervous system, but is important in terms of the biochemistry of the body.
Its main job is to maintain the levels of hormones in the blood and other bodily fluids.
This is done by using the glands in the body.
The most important gland is argued to be the pituitary gland, which is located in the brain.
Why is it sometimes called the ‘master gland’?

A

It is sometimes called the ‘master gland,’ because it instructs the other glands to secrete hormones when necessary

76
Q

The endocrine system is the system that affects the transfer and secretion of hormones throughout the body.
The endocrine system is not part of the nervous system, but is important in terms of the biochemistry of the body.
Its main job is to maintain the levels of hormones in the blood and other bodily fluids.
This is done by using the glands in the body.
The most important gland is argued to be the pituitary gland, which is located in the brain.
It is sometimes called the ‘master gland,’ because it instructs the other glands to secrete hormones when necessary.
Biological psychologists argue that what can affect the behaviour of an individual?

A

Biological psychologists argue that the level of a hormone in the system can affect the behaviour of an individual

77
Q

Neurotransmitters

A

Neurotransmitters are chemicals within the cerebral (or brain) fluid that transmit signals

78
Q

Neurochemistry

A

Neurochemistry is the biochemistry of the central nervous system

79
Q

Neurochemistry is the biochemistry of the central nervous system.
Hormones are the chemicals that travel through the blood.
However, in the brain, what is the transmission of chemicals via?

A

However, in the brain, the transmission of chemicals is via the cerebral fluid (the fluid in the brain)

80
Q

Neurochemistry is the biochemistry of the central nervous system.
Hormones are the chemicals that travel through the blood.
However, in the brain, the transmission of chemicals is via the cerebral fluid (the fluid in the brain).
These chemicals are called neurotransmitters and are seen to be very important by biological psychologists as they are thought to affect behaviour.
Example

A

For example, high levels of a neurotransmitter called dopamine are related to schizophrenia

81
Q

The biological approach evaluation:
For:
1. The biological approach uses scientific methods for investigation using measures that are highly objective (not subject to opinion), like brain scanning and biochemical levels.
Scientific - studies observable and measurable explanations for behaviour such as brain structure and neurotransmitters, therefore adopting an objective approach.

  1. Biopsychology research can result in practical applications being developed like drugs that help the symptoms of people struggling with psychological problems.
  2. Scientific methods of investigation.
    In order to investigate the genetic and biological basis of behaviour, the biological approach makes use of a range of precise and highly scientific methods.
    These include scanning techniques, such as fMRIs and EEGs, family and twin studies, and drug trials.
    With advances in technology, it is possible to accurately measure biological and neural processes in ways that are not open to bias.
    This means that the biological approach is based on reliable data.
  3. Real-life application.
    Increased understanding of biochemical processes in the brain has led to the development of psychoactive drugs that treat serious mental illnesses, like depression.
    Although these drugs are not effective for all patients, they have revolutionised treatment for many.
    This is a strength of the biological approach, because it means that sufferers are able to manage their condition and live a relatively normal life, rather than remain in hospital.
  4. Application - biological principles have been successfully applied in the real world in therapies.
    For example, psychosurgery and chemotherapy.
  5. Deterministic - biological determinism is adopted.
    Believing that behaviour is shaped by inborn factors such as brain function/neurotransmitters means that effective treatments can be given.
    For example, knowing the cause of OCD (excessive brain activity) enables one to control it using psychosurgery.

Against:
1. It is argued that some of the explanations are too simplistic and do not accurately reflect the complexity of human behaviour.
This means that they are reductionist, as they can often fail to acknowledge the role of the environment in behaviour.

  1. Causal conclusions.
    The biological approach offers explanations for mental illness in terms of the action of neurotransmitters in the brain.
    The evidence for this relationship comes from studies that show a particular drug reduces symptoms of a mental disorder and thus it is assumed that the neurochemical in the drug causes the disorder.
    This is similar to assuming that the cause of a headache is a lack of paracetamol, simply because taking paracetamol is effective in relieving symptoms of a headache.
    Discovering an association between two factors does not mean that one is a cause.
    This is a limitation, because the biological approach is claiming to have discovered causes where only an association exists.
  2. Determinist view of behaviour.
    The biological approach is determinist in the sense that it sees human behaviour as governed by internal, biological causes over which we have no control.
    This has implications for the legal system and wider society.
    One of the rules of law is that offenders are seen as legally and morally responsible for their actions.
    The discovery of a ‘criminal gene,’ if there was such a thing, may complicate this principle.
  3. Cannot separate nature and nurture.
    Identical twins, non-identical twins and members of the same family all have genetic similarities.
    Therefore, the biological approach argues that any similarities in the way that they look or behave must be genetic.
    However, there is an important confounding variable.
    They are also exposed to similar environmental conditions.
    This means that findings could just as easily be interpreted as supporting nurture rather than nature.
    This approach also has difficulty accounting for the fact that, in research studies, DZ twins often show higher concordance rates than pairs of ordinary siblings.
    This is likely to be explained by the influence of nurture as DZs and ordinary siblings both have about 50% on average of genes in common.
  4. By explaining mental illness such as schizophrenia through the action of neurotransmitters, then treating this neurologically, a causal conclusion is being made, when it is only an association between two factors.
    For example, two little/much dopamine may be a symptom, rather than a cause of schizophrenia.
  5. Nature vs nurture.
    Despite understanding the differences between genotype and phenotype, the biological approach often only looks at inborn influences on behaviour and therefore ignores the role of nurture and psychological factors such as how people think and feel.
  6. Individual differences.
    Ignores individual differences and assumes that everyone’s biological systems behave in the same way
A

k

82
Q

Inheriting certain genes increases the likelihood of what?

A

Inheriting certain genes increases the likelihood of different behaviours occurring

83
Q

Inheriting certain genes increases the likelihood of different behaviours occurring.
If a genetically determined behaviour promotes survival and reproduction,

A

If a genetically determined behaviour promotes survival and reproduction, it will be selected and passed on to the next generation

84
Q

Inheriting certain genes increases the likelihood of different behaviours occurring.
If a genetically determined behaviour promotes survival and reproduction, it will be selected and passed on to the next generation.
Example

A

For example, humans have evolved to have memory, language and mate preferences

85
Q

Inheriting certain genes increases the likelihood of different behaviours occurring.
If a genetically determined behaviour promotes survival and reproduction, it will be selected and passed on to the next generation.
For example, humans have evolved to have memory, language and mate preferences.
This process of passing on the most adaptive behaviours through our genes

A

This process of passing on the most adaptive behaviours through our genes is called natural selection

86
Q

Neurotransmitters

A

Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that communicate information throughout our brain and body, thus shaping our behaviour

87
Q

Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that communicate information throughout our brain and body, thus shaping our behaviour.
How does one neuron communicate with another at a synapse?

A

One neuron communicates with another at a synapse through the release of neurotransmitters

88
Q

Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that communicate information throughout our brain and body, thus shaping our behaviour.
One neuron communicates with another at a synapse through the release of neurotransmitters.
These neurotransmitters

A

These neurotransmitters are released from one neuron and will either stimulate or inhibit receptors in the other neuron

89
Q

Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that communicate information throughout our brain and body, thus shaping our behaviour.
One neuron communicates with another at a synapse through the release of neurotransmitters.
These neurotransmitters are released from one neuron and will either stimulate or inhibit receptors in the other neuron, resulting in what?

A

These neurotransmitters are released from one neuron and will either stimulate or inhibit receptors in the other neuron, resulting in different behaviours

90
Q

Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that communicate information throughout our brain and body, thus shaping our behaviour.
One neuron communicates with another at a synapse through the release of neurotransmitters.
These neurotransmitters are released from one neuron and will either stimulate or inhibit receptors in the other neuron, resulting in different behaviours.
Example

A

For example, too many D2 receptors results in an excess of dopamine which causes schizophrenia

91
Q
MZ twins (identical twins) share 100% of each other's genes and yet can look physically different due to differences in exercise, diet and lifestyle choices.
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
A

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare genetic disorder that babies are tested for at birth by a heel prick test

92
Q
MZ twins (identical twins) share 100% of each other's genes and yet can look physically different due to differences in exercise, diet and lifestyle choices.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare genetic disorder that babies are tested for at birth by a heel prick test.
If an individual has the genotype,
A

If an individual has the genotype, PKU can cause severe learning difficulties if left undetected

93
Q

MZ twins (identical twins) share 100% of each other’s genes and yet can look physically different due to differences in exercise, diet and lifestyle choices.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare genetic disorder that babies are tested for at birth by a heel prick test.
If an individual has the genotype, PKU can cause severe learning difficulties if left undetected.
However,

A

However, with a carefully restricted diet, the individual can develop without any adverse symptoms

94
Q
MZ twins (identical twins) share 100% of each other's genes and yet can look physically different due to differences in exercise, diet and lifestyle choices.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare genetic disorder that babies are tested for at birth by a heel prick test.
If an individual has the genotype, PKU can cause severe learning difficulties if left undetected.
However, with a carefully restricted diet, the individual can develop without any adverse symptoms.
What do biological psychologists therefore conclude?
A

Biological psychologists therefore conclude that human behaviour is the product of both nature (inherited factors) and nurture (environmental factors)

95
Q

Twin studies by behaviour geneticists compare the concordance rates between MZ twins (identical twins), who share 100% of each other’s genes, and DZ twins (non-identical twins), who share 50% of each other’s genes, and suggest what?

A

Twin studies by behaviour geneticists compare the concordance rates between MZ twins (identical twins), who share 100% of each other’s genes, and DZ twins (non-identical twins), who share 50% of each other’s genes, and suggest that behavioural characteristics such as intelligence, mental health and personality are inherited

96
Q

Twin studies by behaviour geneticists compare the concordance rates between MZ twins (identical twins), who share 100% of each other’s genes, and DZ twins (non-identical twins), who share 50% of each other’s genes, and suggest that behavioural characteristics such as intelligence, mental health and personality are inherited, why?

A

Twin studies by behaviour geneticists compare the concordance rates between MZ twins (identical twins), who share 100% of each other’s genes, and DZ twins (non-identical twins), who share 50% of each other’s genes, and suggest that behavioural characteristics such as intelligence, mental health and personality are inherited, because MZ twins are more likely to share those characteristics

97
Q

Application of the biological approach:

The evolutionary theory of Darwin claims that the long neck of a giraffe

A

The evolutionary theory of Darwin claims that the long neck of a giraffe is an adaptive trait

98
Q

Application of the biological approach:
The evolutionary theory of Darwin claims that the long neck of a giraffe is an adaptive trait.
It is a physical response

A

It is a physical response to their natural environment

99
Q

Application of the biological approach:
The evolutionary theory of Darwin claims that the long neck of a giraffe is an adaptive trait.
It is a physical response to their natural environment, where what?

A

It is a physical response to their natural environment, where having a long neck gives them an advantage over other animals, because they can reach the food high up in the trees

100
Q

Application of the biological approach:
The evolutionary theory of Darwin claims that the long neck of a giraffe is an adaptive trait.
It is a physical response to their natural environment, where having a long neck gives them an advantage over other animals, because they can reach the food high up in the trees.
This

A

This increases their chances of survival and is therefore part of natural selection

101
Q

Application of the biological approach:
The evolutionary theory of Darwin claims that the long neck of a giraffe is an adaptive trait.
It is a physical response to their natural environment, where having a long neck gives them an advantage over other animals, because they can reach the food high up in the trees.
This increases their chances of survival and is therefore part of natural selection.

According to the biological approach, because of natural selection, men

A

According to the biological approach, because of natural selection, men are more attracted to young women with wide hips, narrow waists, full lips and large eyes

102
Q

Application of the biological approach:
The evolutionary theory of Darwin claims that the long neck of a giraffe is an adaptive trait.
It is a physical response to their natural environment, where having a long neck gives them an advantage over other animals, because they can reach the food high up in the trees.
This increases their chances of survival and is therefore part of natural selection.

According to the biological approach, because of natural selection, men are more attracted to young women with wide hips, narrow waists, full lips and large eyes, why?

A

According to the biological approach, because of natural selection, men are more attracted to young women with wide hips, narrow waists, full lips and large eyes, because they appear more fertile

103
Q

Reductionism is breaking behaviour down into constituent parts.
The true and ultimate cause.
Example

A

For example, schizophrenia is caused by genes

104
Q

Reductionism is breaking behaviour down into constituent parts.
The true and ultimate cause.
For example, schizophrenia is caused by genes.
Why is the biological approach considered to be very reductionist?

A

The biological approach is considered to be very reductionist, because it believes that genes are the only cause

Decks in Psychology Class (141):