Question 1: Define the biological approach in psychology and explain its main focus.

Answer: The biological approach in psychology suggests that behaviour is influenced by biological processes such as genetics, hormones, and brain structures. Its main focus is understanding how these biological factors affect thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.

Question 2: Describe how genetics might influence aggressive behaviour according to the biological approach.

Answer: Genetics may influence aggressive behaviour through inherited traits and genes that affect brain chemistry or structure, such as variations in the MAOA gene, which has been linked to aggression.

Question 3: Explain the role of neurotransmitters in the biological explanation of mood disorders.

Answer: Neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain. Imbalances in these chemicals are believed to contribute to mood disorders such as depression and schizophrenia.

Question 4: Identify two methods used by psychologists to study the biological basis of behaviour.

Answer: Two methods are brain imaging techniques (such as MRI or PET scans) and genetic testing or analysis of inherited traits.

Question 5: Describe a case where brain damage affected behaviour, illustrating the biological approach.

Answer: A famous case is Phineas Gage, who suffered damage to his frontal lobe, which led to significant changes in his personality and behaviour, demonstrating the link between brain structures and behaviour.

Question 6: 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. The diagram should clearly show the flow of nerve impulses from dendrites to terminal buttons.

Question 7: Sketch a simplified diagram of how a hormone like adrenaline affects the body during a 'fight or flight' response.

Answer: The sketch should depict adrenaline being released into the bloodstream, with arrows pointing to effects such as increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and energy release in muscles.

Question 8: Discuss one strength and one limitation of the biological approach in explaining behaviour.

Answer: A strength is that it provides a scientific basis for understanding behaviour through measurable biological processes. A limitation is that it can overlook the influence of environmental and psychological factors on behaviour.

Question 9: Explain how twin studies support the biological approach's view on the role of genetics in behaviour.

Answer: Twin studies compare the behaviour of identical and fraternal twins. Higher similarity in behaviour among identical twins suggests a strong genetic component, supporting the biological view.

Question 10: Describe a real-life example where a biological factor has been linked to a psychological condition.

Answer: One example is the link between low serotonin levels and depression, where medication that increases serotonin activity can help reduce depressive symptoms.