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Biospychology A level AQA Psychology Paper 2 Summary
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In depth notes for the entire topic of biopsychology. It includes knowledge for Ao1 as well notes for evaluation paragraphs
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Ultradian and Infradian RhythmsUltradian refers to biological rhythms that span a period of less than 24 hours (e.g.
stages of sleep) while infradian rhythms span over a period of more than 24 hours (e.g.
menstrual cycle)
Example of Infradian Rhythms
- The menstrual cycle is an infradian rhythm governed by the monthly changes in
hormone levels involved in ovulation.
- An average cycle lasts 28 days (21-35 considered normal)
- Day 1 is the first day of bleeding when the thickened lining of the womb starts to
be shed. During the cycle, oestrogen rises causing ovaries to develop and release
an egg (during ovulation)
- After ovulation, progesterone helps the uterus lining thicken to prepare the body
for pregnancy. The hormones act as endogenous pacemakers to regulate timings
in the cycle
- If pregnancy does not occur the egg is absorbed into the body and the womb
lining comes away and leaves the body (menstrual flow)
Evaluation of menstrual cycle
Evidence to suggest infradian rhythms are governed by exogenous zeitgebers -
McClintock and Stern experiment with 29 women on irregular periods. Samples of
pheromones were gathered from 9 of the women at different stages of their cycle via
cotton pad placed in their armpit which were then rubbed against the lips of the other
women. 68% of women experienced changes in their cycle - external factors must be
taken into account when investigating infradian rhythms and a more holistic approach
should be taken as opposed to reductionist
Research into infradian rhythms can be criticised for their choice of methodology -
argument that there are many factors that may affect change in a woman’s menstrual
cycle which include stress, changes in diet, age and exercise - any supposed pattern of
synchronisation is no more than would have been expected to occur by chance and we
cannot be confident any changes in infradian rhythms occurred due to the exogenous
zeitgeber (pheromones)
Research to suggest infradian rhythms such as the menstrual cycle influences other
behaviour - Penton-voak et al suggests that human mate choices varies across the cycle
with different preferences at various stages - represents a preference for kindness and
cooperation in parental care in long term mates but a preference for male with good
genes for short term liaisons so that these genes might be passed onto offsprings
Examples of Ultradian Rhythms
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