We adapt to the environment to
our environment in order to survive.
His theory of evolution shows how the strongest
genes survive and are passed onto the net
generation, whilst maladaptive genes die out.
Examples of
evolutionary behaviour
sexual selection e.g.
mating calls (in animals)
rooting reflex (humans)
New born babies will turn their heads
to anything that touches their cheek
or mouth and so this reflex aids
breastfeeding and therefor survival.
Research
Research is mainly tested on
non-human species e.g. rats and mice.
Psychologists can manipulate certain genes
in order to measure the effect on behaviour.
Examples of research
programmes:
Genetic Mapping
Genetic Engineering
Selective breeding
Stregnths
uses scientific, experimental procedures
Can produce drugs that alleviate
disorders such as bipolar depression.
Limitations
Is reductionist. It only explains
behaviour changes though biology.
Is over-simplistic. Fails to appreciate
other factors e.g. the environment.
Raises ethical problems.
Behaviour is caused my our biological make-up
Physiology
Investigating how the brain, nervous system and
hormones operate; how changes in the structure and
function of organs and chemicals can affect our behaviour
Investigation of heritability
Understanding the role that genes might
have on our behaviuor - for example is
intelligence inherited?
Comparative Method
Different species of animals are studies and
compared to humans; this way we can learn and
understand more about human behaviour.