What is the role of biology in psychology?

Psychology draws more and more from biology studies, since both areas of knowledge are connected. Here we tell you how.

Although they are treated independently of psychology and biology, it is currently recognized that Both disciplines are intrinsically connected. The mind is not understood without psychobiology and biology is not deciphered without taking into account behavior.

Now, how are they intertwined? What concepts link them? You will discover it in this space, we invite you to continue reading.

Understanding biology to understand psychology

The close relationship between the brain, body and mind makes biology a branch of knowledge that is impossible to eliminate from the study of behavior. Advances in neuroscience reveal that Our thoughts, emotions and behaviors have a biological basis, despite the effect of the environment on them.

In fact, this processing and influence of the environment also has a neurological correlate. An example of this is the study published in Frontiers in neuroscience that questions certain theories of social psychology, in accordance with findings in neuroscience and genetics.

In this regard, it is worth mentioning another investigation in the magazine Intelligence, which indicates that there is a significant genetic influence regarding intelligence and personality; There is talk of a variation of approximately 50%.

Developing understanding of the interaction between biology and psychology

Initially, psychology focused on the study of the mind and consciousness, without taking into account its biological basis. However, with the emergence of neuroscience in the 20th century, the connection between the brain and mind began to be understood.

So, Imaging techniques were developed that allowed studying the brain, such as electroencephalography (EEG) and positron emission tomography (PET).

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In more recent years, The field of epigenetics has provided new perspectives on the influence of the environment on an individual’s genetic expression.. An example of this is the reversibility of epigenetic modifications, which influence the development of mental disorders through different forms of psychotherapy.

Concepts to take into account

The link between these 2 disciplines is manifested in several points that form key concepts such as those presented below:

Behavioral heritability: degree to which differences in psychological traits are attributed to genetic differences.Brain plasticity: refers to the brain’s ability to adapt and change over time in response to experience and learning.Influence of the environment: Both genetics and environment play a crucial role in shaping an individual’s psychology. The best example is the one set out above: epigenetics.

These concepts underscore the importance of considering both biological and environmental factors in understanding human psychology. They are the pillars that support integrative research related to the topic.

What methodologies are used to explore the connection between both disciplines?

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is one of the most widely used imaging techniques to study brain activity. linked to cognitive and emotional processes. Through it, the functioning of the brain is analyzed in real time, while the subject performs specific tasks.

On the other hand, Molecular genetics and twin studies provide valuable information about the heritability of behavior. Although currently used more to treat diseases, gene editing methods, such as CRISPR-Cas9, are promising tools in investigating the role of specific genes in psychological processes.

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Likewise, Psychology benefits from the contributions of specific branches such as molecular biology, neuroscience and psychopharmacology.. The nervous system and its psychological processes advance greatly, thanks to these interdisciplinary collaborations.

How do biology and psychology connect in research and practice?

The interconnection between biology and psychology is becoming increasingly evident in the scientific world. In fact, the relationship between brain activity and psychology is revealed study by study.

Proof of this is the work of Ramachandran, researcher who captured in his book Phantoms in the brain: Probing the mysteries of the human mind brain areas involved in romantic emotional response through fMRI.

Besides, Psychopharmacology plays a role in linking biology and psychology. It is known that medications that affect the activity of the nervous system (psychotropic drugs), such as antidepressants or anxiolytics, significantly impact emotionality and behavior.

So, does the mind act on the organism?

You see, Knowing the bases that make up behavior and emotions goes far beyond introspection. Studies are required on the biology of the brain and how the mind operates in our body.

Like everything in nature, nothing is simple, but rather a complex and magnificent orchestration that works in harmony.