By Psychology increasingly draws on biology studies, as both areas of knowledge are connected. Here we tell you how.
Although psychology and biology are treated independently, it is now recognized that both disciplines are intrinsically connected. The mind cannot be understood without psychobiology and biology cannot be deciphered without taking behavior into account.
Now, how are they intertwined? What concepts link them? You will find out 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 cannot be excluded from the study of behaviour. Advances in neuroscience reveal that our thoughts, emotions and behaviours 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 study in the journal Intelligence , which indicates that there is a significant genetic influence on 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 considering their biological basis. However, with the emergence of neuroscience in the 20th century, the connection between the brain and the mind began to be understood.
Imaging techniques were then developed that allowed the study of the brain, such as electroencephalography (EEG) and positron emission tomography (PET).
In more recent years, the field of epigenetics has provided new insights into the influence of the environment on an individual’s genetic expression . One example is the reversibility of epigenetic modifications , which influence the development of mental disorders through different forms of psychotherapy.
Concepts to keep in mind
The link between these two disciplines is manifested in several points that form key concepts such as those presented below:
- Heritability of behavior: degree to which differences in psychological traits are attributable 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 given 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 on 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. It analyzes brain function in real time, while the subject performs specific tasks.
On the other hand, molecular genetics and twin studies provide valuable information on the heritability of behavior . Although they are currently used more to treat diseases, gene editing methods, such as CRISPR-Cas9, are promising tools in investigating the function of specific genes in psychological processes.
Similarly, psychology benefits from contributions from specific branches such as molecular biology, neuroscience and psychopharmacology . The nervous system and its psychological processes have greatly advanced 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 being revealed study by study.
An example of this is the work of Ramachandran, a researcher who captured the brain areas involved in romantic emotional response through fMRI in his book Phantoms in the brain: Probing the mysteries of the human mind.
Furthermore, psychopharmacology plays a role in linking biology and psychology. Medications that affect the activity of the nervous system (psychotropic drugs), such as antidepressants or anxiolytics, are known to significantly impact emotionality and behavior.
So, does the mind act on the organism?
You see, knowing the foundations that shape behavior and emotions goes far beyond introspection. It requires studies on the biology of the brain and how the mind operates in our organism.
Like everything in nature, nothing is simple, but rather a complex and magnificent orchestration that works in harmony.