49 exam-style questions on Biological approach to behaviour — topic CON.1 of Content: Approaches to understanding behaviour in the IB Psychology syllabus — with answers and explanations. Samples below; the full set is free with an account.
Chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse between neurons are called
Answer: neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters are released at the synapse; hormones travel in the bloodstream and act more slowly and diffusely.
A hormone released by the adrenal glands that helps prepare the body for a 'fight or flight' response is
Answer: adrenaline (epinephrine)
Adrenaline raises heart rate and mobilises energy; it has also been linked to the encoding of emotionally arousing memories.
Which neurotransmitter is strongly linked to mood regulation and is targeted by many antidepressant medications?
Answer: serotonin
SSRIs act on serotonin. Note that low serotonin correlating with low mood does not by itself prove serotonin causes depression.
A drug binds to a receptor site and prevents the neurotransmitter from producing its usual effect. The drug is acting as:
Answer: an antagonist at the synapse
An antagonist blocks or dampens transmission, an agonist mimics or boosts it. Scopolamine, used by Antonova et al. (2011), is an acetylcholine antagonist.
Rat pups that received little maternal grooming later showed altered expression of a stress-related gene, although the DNA sequence itself was unchanged. This is best described as:
Answer: an epigenetic effect on expression
Epigenetic mechanisms such as methylation switch genes on or off without altering the sequence, which is how early experience can leave a lasting biological trace (Weaver et al., 2004).
The main hormone released by the HPA axis during prolonged stress, which can suppress immune function, is ___. (one word)
Answer: cortisol
During chronic stress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis triggers the adrenal cortex to release cortisol. While useful short-term, sustained high cortisol can impair immune responses, memory and health.
That was 6 of 49 Biological approach to behaviour questions.
Practise all 49 freeStateAO1 · 1–9 marks
One word or one short sentence. No explanation, no working: the mark is for the fact itself.
OutlineAO1 · 1–9 marks
A brief account or summary: the main points in two or three sentences, no evaluation.
ExplainAO2 · 3–9 marks
Give reasons or causes: say what happens AND why, linking each step with 'because' or 'so that'.
49 Biological approach to behaviour questions — free with an account. Spaced repetition, streaks and full exam simulations included.
Practise them freeThis platform is independently developed and is not endorsed by, affiliated with, or sponsored by the International Baccalaureate Organization. “International Baccalaureate” and “IB” are registered trademarks of the IBO.