Question

Describe at least five (5) ways in which biology influences human behavior.

Answer 1

Neurotransmitters play a huge role in human behaviour. The inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters are responsible for stimulation of the brain. Serotonin and GABA are inhibitory neurotransmitters used to balance the emotions and stabilise the mood. Dopamine plays an important role in depression, in concentration and focus and motivation. Epinephrine and nor epinephrine are both excitatory neurons where the elevated levels may result in stress and anxiety. There is a strong link between neurotransmitters and mental disorders. E.g. ADHD is caused because of imbalance in the dopamine and epinephrine levels.

Hormones have a huge impact on human behaviour. They can cause several changes in the mood and emotions and thus affect the behaviour. The gland thyroid secretes thyroxin hormone that deeply affects an individuals ability to deal with stress and anxiety. The adrenal gland secretes the adrenaline gland, also called the fight and flight hormone that plays an important role too. The insulin levels in our body directly impacts our energy and alertness.

Human behaviour is a result of both nature and nurture. The genetic makeup of an individual plays a very import role in human behaviour. The individuals personality and susceptibility to mental disorders are largely determined by the genes inherited from the parents. e.g. A person may be an introvert or an extrovert by birth because of the genetic predispositions.

The gender also plays an important role in the human behaviour. It has been seen that women are more likely to suffer from depression as compared to men. This can be because of multiple reasons. Biologically, the genetic predisposition of women is such that they have greater chances of depression. A woman goes through multiple hormonal changes, especially during childbirth and menopause which can contribute to postpartum and premenopausal depression.