Levels of Explanation

Page 1

Biological

The physical

processes underlying behaviour – What is happening to the body?

Involves:

-Brain structure

& function

-Sensory

receptors & the motor system

-Hormones

-Genetics

Physiological

Features

-Changes in

heart/breathing rate, blood pressure

-Pupil dilation,

perspiration

Example:

Automatic arousal – ‘Fight or flight’

Basic Processes

The

physiological processes that are common to most people

Involves:

-Memory

-Learning

-Cognition

Example: An unrealistic

fear of open spaces might be better understood through considering:

-The original

event (memory)

-What kind of

learning may have taken place

-What thoughts

are taking place (cognition)

Socio-cultural

The influence of

other people on behaviour (the social context)

Involves:

-Culture

-Socio-economic

influences

-Peer groups

-Stereo-types

Example: A males

desire to cry in public may be influenced by;

-Cultural norms

in relation to the situation

-The opinion and

presence of peers

-How he believes

others may perceive his tears

Person

The influence of

individual differences on behaviour

-Age, class,

education

-Personality

-Preferences

Example: How

comfortable an individual feels in the mosh pit of a concert may differ

depending on:

-Music

preference

-Age

-Personality

(introvert/extrovert)

biological

Basic processes

socio-cultural

person