Photo AI
To what extent is biological psychology scientific? - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 12 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 12
To what extent is biological psychology scientific?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent is biological psychology scientific? - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 12 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
AO1: To what extent is biological psychology scientific?
Answer
To regard biological psychology as scientific, it must adhere to the principles of scientific inquiry. This includes having a high degree of control over variables, which minimizes the effects of extraneous factors. Biological psychology relies on hypothesis testing; that is, hypotheses must be testable and falsifiable to allow concepts within this domain to be supported or refuted.
Science employs a hypothetico-deductive model, wherein researchers form hypotheses based on observations and then design experiments to test them. A scientific approach strives to identify causative relationships by observing consistent patterns within behaviors and neurological processes. Furthermore, for biological psychology to be established as a science, it must conduct research under controlled conditions, often within artificial settings, to ensure replicability and reliability of findings. However, some critics may argue that isolating scientific concepts from their context may lead to reductive and overly simplistic interpretations.
Step 2
AO3: Provide examples to illustrate the scientific nature of biological psychology.
Answer
Raine et al. (1997) conducted studies using controlled tasks, such as the continuous performance task, where medication was not allowed to impact brain scans. Such studies exemplify the scientific nature of biological psychology by demonstrating that specific variables were controlled to yield reliable results.
When investigating the effects of recreational drugs, biological psychology relies on testing hypotheses regarding substances, such as the impact of alcohol on serotonin levels. This work supports the notion that biological psychology is scientific, as hypotheses can be formed about the biological mechanisms in play.
Moreover, the role of hormones, such as testosterone, can be explored through controlled experiments where researchers manipulate variables and observe outcomes. However, limitations exist. For example, biological psychology often uses correlational methods, and while correlation can reveal relationships, it does not establish causation. Also, the influence of evolutionary factors complicates the understanding of human behavior, making it hard to assert biological psychology as fully reductive.
In conclusion, while biological psychology meets several criteria of scientific inquiry, its complexity and the interrelatedness of biological and environmental factors mean it is not wholly definitive in its scientific standing.