A neuroimaging study shows that the amygdala is more active when participants view fearful faces than neutral faces. What can we conclude?
AThe amygdala is the sole brain region responsible for processing fear
BAmygdala activity is correlated with fear processing, but this does not establish causation or exclusivity
CRemoving the amygdala would eliminate fear responses entirely
DGenes fully determine amygdala activity levels
Neuroimaging reveals correlations between brain activity and behavior, not causal or exclusive relationships. The amygdala is involved in fear processing but so are other regions (prefrontal cortex, hippocampus). Lesion studies and other methods are needed to establish causation.
Question 2 True / False
Biological psychology holds that behavior is ultimately determined by genetics, making experience and environment secondary influences.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: False
Biological psychology explicitly recognizes that genes and brain structure are shaped by experience throughout life — through synaptic plasticity, epigenetics, and development. 'Biological' describes the level of analysis (neurons, brain regions, hormones), not a claim that biology fixes behavior independently of context.
Question 3 Short Answer
Why do biological psychologists study clinical disorders like Parkinson's disease or major depression?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: Disorders reveal how specific biological mechanisms (neurotransmitters, brain circuits, genes) relate to behavior and cognition. When a system breaks down in a predictable way, researchers can infer what that system normally does.
This is the lesion-study logic applied broadly: disruptions in biological systems — whether from disease, injury, or pharmacological intervention — create natural experiments. Parkinson's loss of dopaminergic neurons clarifies dopamine's role in movement; depression research illuminates serotonin and prefrontal-limbic circuits.