EDU3102 CHILD DEVELOPMENT(Post No.2)

Reading Material for Topic 1a: Nature of human beings: Biological Perspective.
Introduction


Biology and Psychology: Where is the Linkage? Biology and psychology are meaningfully and intricately linked. In psychology, human behavior can be explained by carefully studying life itself, including the components and structures affecting a human being.

Moreover, environment plays a major role affecting the reaction and responses of both simple and complex organisms. The two fields are likewise connected through heart systems and circulation. An individual in a negative psychological state increases the release of fatty substances blocking the blood vessels the release of these fatty substances is decreased particularly if the individual is in a positive psychological state.

Biology and psychology are integrated nonetheless they still retain principles distinct to each realm. Both simple and complex organisms are made up of cells. The most complex organisms - human, are made up of several types of cells each having their specific function. Among the cells making up the human body, neurons are considered to be the most important , since these function for control and communication . They act as the controller of different cells, regulating each function and ensuring that every process is in its proper rhythm. Organisms with neurons (nervous system -neurons in cluster, brain and other organs) are capable of performing tasks of utmost complexity

Evolution has taken place resulting to changes of the physical and behavioral characteristics of an organism for survival and reproduction purposes. Mechanisms and strategies are learned to equip organisms with the skills necessary for survival in their particular habitat. Human beings need food and water for existence they feel hunger and thirst and as a response, one must eat and drink.

The behavior of an individual is also affected by external factors. For instance, if food and water are not available, how can he feed himself? With this, new behavior from an individual may be expected as a way of adapting to these external variables. Temperature and body fluid level affect behavior. If these factors deviated from their normal range, the body exhibits specific reactions to normalize this and reach equilibrium. Shivering is a body's response at cold temperatures it is the body's response to generate heat against cold temperature. Thirst, sweating, and urine production are regulated by the body fluids. Psychological states are regulated and corrected if these deviate from normal, to maintain balance or homeostasis.

Both internal and external factors are taken as an aggregate in determining behavior. The brain takes charge of processing the information, ending up with results aimed to regain or maintain the normal state. The brain regulates the responses created by both internal and external variable and the responses and behavior observed from an individual has solid scientific basis. An internal or external factor triggers the organism to react or behave in that manner. For each action done, a scientific or biological explanation may be put forth. If an organism feels danger for himself, it would be instinctive or automatic for him to protect himself from his predators.
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