1. Debate : Reductionism Vs. Holism
Psychology A2

2. Reductionism
Argues that all psychological phenomenon can be reduced to simple parts.
Support deterministic views and claims that behaviour is predictable as it is determined by one factor.
Strong supporters of reductionism believe that behaviour and mental processes should be explained within the framework of basic sciences (e.g. physiology, chemistry.... ).  
Any explanation of behaviour at its simplest level can be deemed reductionist.

3. Strengths
Allows you to look in detail at components that effect behaviour.
Can be used to explain certain types of behaviours and disorders.
Scientific.
Open to testing.

4. Limitations Over simplifies complex behaviours.
Does not take into consideration other factors affecting behaviour.
Breaks down complex phenomenon into simple explanations.

5. Holism
Refers to any approach or study that looks at the whole picture/ individual rather than breaking it down into components.
When studying individuals you would look at the whole person to gain an understanding about anything that may impact on their behaviour not just specific parts.  

6. Strengths Looks at everything that may impact on behaviour.
Considers more than one cause.
Allows for a detailed all round analysis.

7. Limitations Does not allow for detailed study into one area.
Non- scientific.
Does not explain mental illness.
Over complicates behaviours which may have a simple explanation/

8. Reductionism: links to approaches
Biological approach : Reductionism is often equated with physiological reductionism, offering explanations of behaviour in terms of physiological mechanisms.
 Evolutionary approach: Reductionist with regards to its biological underpinning.

9. Holism: links to approaches
 Social Psychology- looks at the behaviour of individuals in a social context. Group behaviour (e.g. conformity, de-individualisation) may show characteristics that are greater than the sum of the individuals which comprise it.

10. homework
Read through the Genetic theories of aggression and evidence for both
Tuesday 22nd September