Biological Approach
Psychology: AQA A Level, topic 5.2.3
Biological Approach: Strengths and Weaknesses
There are several different approaches to the study of psychology: psychodynamic, cognitive, biological, and learning.
Strength - good testability
- The biological approach follows the scientific method.
- This allows for reliable and valid data on which statistical tests can be performed.
- This means it has good testability.
Strength - treatments
- Similar to the cognitive approach, the biological approach allows for the development of biological treatments.
- For example, depression is caused by an unbalance in neurotransmitters, and then treatments can be tailored accordingly.
- This makes the approach useful and applicable.
Weakness - lack of insight into environment
- As the focus of the approach is on the internal biology of a person, there is a lack of insight into environmental factors such as family life, social status, and their childhood.
Weakness - responsibility issue
- Some think that if there is a biological explanation for behaviour, for example aggression linked to criminal acts, it can allow people the excuse not to take responsibility for their behaviour.
Test yourself on Biological Approach
Which of the below would the biological approach study?