IBreakdown

- Define the BLOA

- what is the purpose of research method in psychology?

researchers and psychologists use a variety of methods for collecting and analysing data within psychological research and studies. Research methods are used and manipulated in order for researchers to conduct their studies. 

- main types of research methods:

experiments

case studies

observational studies

surveys/questionnaires

correlational studies 

- concept of triangulation:

some researchers decide to use 2 or more research methods within their investigation. This increases credibility. there are 4 main types of triangulation: (1) data, (2) researcher, (3) theoretical and (4) methodological. Can help to reduce 2 major types of bias, researcher and observer. 

- experiments 

experiments are used to determine the cause and effect relationship between 2 variables; IV and DV. Researchers manipulate the IV and measure the DV, then attempt to control as many extraneous variables as possible. 3 types of experiments: (1) laboratory, (2) field and (3) natural/quasi. allows cause-effect relationship to be determined. 

- Define the BLOA 

- introduce principle 1: there are biological correlates of behaviour 

- supporting study: HM - MRI scans

- introduce principle 2: human behaviour is, to some extent, genetically based

Darwin’s theory of evolution, helpful characteristics are inherited. researchers often use twin studies to examine this. 

- supporting study: Bouchard minnesota twin study

- Define the BLOA

physiological/biological basis to all cognitions, behaviours and emotions. Behaviour can be caused/influenced by biological factors. 

- Introduce principle 1: there are biological correlates of behaviour

emotions and behaviours are products of anatomy and physiology, i.e. hormones, genes, neurotransmitters. These physiological processes are what forms the basis of the BLOA, in relation to how it functions and affects human behaviour in everyday life. This relates to the idea of localisation of function, each area of the brain is responsible for coordinating a certain part of our body/nervous system and thus our behaviour. 

- supporting study: HM

Epileptic seizures when 7. Became increasingly incapacitated. Neurosurgeon, William Scoville, performed experimental surgery, when HM was 27, in order to cure the seizures. He removed tissues from the medial temporal lobe, including hippocampus on both sides. Cured epileptic seizures. Suffered from anterograde amnesia, personality and intellect remained intact. couldn't create new episodic or semantic memories. Parts of the temporal lobe were found the be removed, including the amygdala and the hippocampus. 

- Introduce principle 2: animal research can provide insight into human behaviour 

Based on Darwin;s theory of evolution. Humans and many animals are different species now due to evolutionary adaptation to environmental demands. evolution is attributed as to why some animals and humans share some similar anatomy and behaviour. inferences about humans can be made from animal research. 

- supporting study: Martinez and Kesner (1991)