Biological Psychology

• Definition
• Biological psychologists use the “Reductionist Approach”
• They attempt to explain behavior very simply …. By finding the physiological (physical) reasons behind the behavior

• Principles:
• 1. There are biological basis of our behaviors

• 2. Animal research can provide insight into human behavior

• 3. Our behavior is, at least partially, based on our genes

• 4. Different parts of the brain/different neurotransmitters serve different functions

• Now, psychologists realize the importance of both genetics and environment
on human thought and behavior.
• Biological psychologists focus on how evolution, our genes, the make up of
our brains, and chemicals and hormones affect our thoughts and behaviors.