Outline two types of determinism

Biological determinism refers to the concept that all human behaviour is innate and determined by factors like our genes, hormones and neurotransmitter systems. The biological approach looks at behaviour with a biologically deterministic view. An example is the idea the dopamine hypothesis in explaining causes for schizophrenia. This idea refers to the concept that an excess of the dopamine neurotransmitter causes the symptoms seen in schizophrenia.A second type of determinism is environmental determinism. This is the view that behaviour is caused by forces outside the individual. Therefore our behaviours are caused by previous experience.An example is the idea that phobias are acquired through the process of classical conditioning and maintained through operant conditioning.

Answered by Miriam M. Psychology tutor

5416 Views

See similar Psychology A Level tutors

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is meant by the terms nominal, ordinal, interval and ratio data and why is it important to know the difference between the four terms?


What's a better way to evaluate research than just looking at the sample/method? (methodological evaluation)


How do I write a good hypothesis?


A Level: What's the difference between 'reliability' and 'validity'?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences