Biological Psychology Name PSY 340: Biological Foundations of Psychology Date Biological Psychology The beginning of behavior, emotion, and thought all begin in the brain and this is the foundation of biological psychology. Biological psychology is the scientific study of the physiological bases of human behavior and mental processes. Biological psychology is also known as behavioral neuroscience and physiological psychology. Biological psychology focuses on the relationship of underlying physiological events and psychological processes. This form of psychology is involved with the mind-body dispute and researchers how they affect one another.
The roots of psychology can be traced to the ancient philosopher based on their early records to understand psychology. The earliest roots of modern psychology can be traced to two different approaches to human behaviour: philosophy and physiology (see Figure 1.2). Philosophy explores and attempts to explain human nature through introspection or self-examination
As the text states, it started with a concern for, “…explaining the processes of thought by using the technique of introspection (i.e., self-reflection)” (Wickens, 2005). Since self-reflection is biased then there had to be a more investigational method, conceivably, a method where the information could be observed and recorded. Psychology has become more about the study of behavior and mental phenomena, whereas, biopsychology is about the study of the brain and how it relates to behaviors. In my paper I will identify some of the important theorists that are associated with biological psychology and describe the relationship between biological psychology and other fields of psychology and neuroscience. I will also describe the major underlying assumptions of a biopsychological approach.
Psychology is a science dealing with an individuals mental health and behavior. Philosophy is a branch of psychology that studies the functions of the human mind, body, and soul. A philosopher is an individual who studies philosophy. The discussion seeks to explain several philosophers’ of psychology. The first modern philosopher discussed is Rene
1. Define psychology. Briefly describe the evolution of modern psychology. Psychology, as defined by Psychology and Life (19th Edition), is the scientific study of the behavior of individuals and their mental processes (Gerrig, R. J. and Zimbardo, P. G. 2). My interpretation of this definition is that psychology, while unique to each person, is the culmination of all experiences which ultimately identifies a being and can at times predict or evoke certain behaviors.
Biological Approach | PY1 PY1 | Model answers for biological approach | Sumi Prasobh AS Level | 1a) Outline two assumptions of the biological approach (4 marks) One assumption of the biological approach is that our personalities and behaviors are biologically determined. Lab research found that we’re a product of our brain structure. The balance of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and adrenaline has directly been found to affect our mood, thoughts and personalities. For example Hans Selye found that both humans and animals are biologically determined to react in the same predictable way to the threat of a stressor for aiding survival. Another assumption is that certain regions of the brain determine certain behaviors.
This essay will discuss theories of psychology, looking at behaviourist and humanistic approaches and describe some psychological treatments involved within them. Finally, this essay will then compare therapies with a biological treatment and discuss whether psychological treatments are the most appropriate and effective for mental health. Behaviourism is defined by Watson (1913) as the whole set of events leading to a process of adjustment to the environment. “According to the behavioural model, abnormal behaviour is learned in the same way as normal behaviour.” (Rice and Haralambos, 2000 : 164). This meant that all behaviour is learned and can be adapted.
This essay will consider the philosophies behind the whole healing System, Naturopathy and the modality acupuncture; delving into how they began, how they have changed and how they define ‘health’ and ‘disease’. My personal views will also be discussed on health and disease. In 1900, Doctor Benedict Lust, a German physician who immigrated to America, bought the term ‘naturopathy’ from Dr. John Schell to define the diverse compilation of principles of natural healing (Thiel 2000, p.3). Lust’s intrigue in naturopathy was fueled by the treatment aim to increase the vital force (Thiel 2000, p.3). In 1902, Lust founded the American School of Naturopathy, which taught of the healing power of nature and importance of increasing the vital force (Thiel 2000, p.3).
From this outline psychology could clearly be defined as a science as it involves gaining a deeper understanding of humans within the world. However, there are many factors which need to be taken into account in order to claim psychology as science. Thus, this essay will look at and apply the main attributes that characterise a science to psychology, discussing the arguments for and against psychology being a science in relation to scientific methods and research biases. The scientific method involves experimentation exploring observations for cause and effect relationships. The design of which is so one variable is manipulating another variable primarily by gathering quantitative research.
The purpose of this paper will examine Transcendental Meditation (TM) as a method to improve the quality of health with a person’s with medical issues in the emergency room (ER). Maharishi Mahesh Yogi introduced TM in 1959. The TM technique is based on Indian philosophy along with teachings of Krishna, Budha, and Shankara. TM uses mantra, which is sound that is thought (but not spoken) during meditation. TM stresses certain techniques, such specific posture, focused attention, and openness.