Question 1: Define the Biological Approach in Psychology and explain its main focus.

Answer: The Biological Approach in Psychology studies how biological factors such as genetics, brain structures, and neurotransmitters influence behaviour and mental processes.

Question 2: Describe how genetics can influence behaviour according to the Biological Approach. Give an example.

Answer: Genetics influence behaviour through inherited genes that affect traits like intelligence or temperament. For example, a family history of depression may increase the likelihood of an individual experiencing depression.

Question 3: Explain the role of neurotransmitters in the Biological Approach. Provide an example of a neurotransmitter and its effect on behaviour.

Answer: Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals across synapses in the brain, affecting mood and behaviour. For example, serotonin is linked to mood regulation; low levels are associated with depression.

Question 4: Identify and describe two brain structures involved in behaviour according to the Biological Approach.

Answer: The hippocampus is involved in memory formation, while the amygdala is associated with processing emotions such as fear and aggression.

Question 5: Discuss how the biological approach might explain aggressive behaviour.

Answer: The biological approach suggests that aggression may be linked to genetic factors, brain structures like the amygdala, or neurotransmitters such as testosterone or serotonin levels.

Question 6: Describe what a researcher might study to investigate the biological basis of eating behaviour.

Answer: A researcher could examine the role of hormones like ghrelin or leptin, or study brain activity in areas related to hunger and satiety.

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram of a neuron, labeling its main parts.

Answer: A neuron diagram should include the cell body (soma), dendrites, axon, myelin sheath, and terminal buttons.

Question 8: Sketch a basic diagram illustrating how neurotransmitters transmit signals across a synapse.

Answer: The sketch should show a presynaptic neuron releasing neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, which then bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron.

Question 9: Explain how the biological approach can help in understanding mental health disorders like depression.

Answer: It suggests that imbalances in neurotransmitters, genetic predispositions, or structural differences in the brain can contribute to depression, guiding treatment options like medication.

Question 10: Identify and describe one strength and one limitation of the Biological Approach.

Answer: A strength is that it provides a scientific, evidence-based understanding of behaviour. A limitation is that it may overlook environmental and social factors influencing behaviour.