The medical model's explanation of mental illness through biological factors

The medical model views mental illness as a result of biological factors, much like physical illnesses are caused by underlying physiological issues. This approach suggests that mental disorders stem from abnormalities in the body, particularly in the brain.

The biochemical explanation and the role of neurotransmitters

The biochemical explanation within the medical model focuses on the role of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain that regulate mood, behaviour, and thought processes.

Key neurotransmitters involved in mental illness

• Serotonin - Often linked to mood regulation; low levels are associated with depression and anxiety disorders.
• Dopamine - Plays a role in reward and motivation; excessive dopamine activity is connected to schizophrenia, while deficiencies may relate to Parkinson's disease and depression.
• Norepinephrine (Noradrenaline) - Involved in stress responses and arousal; imbalances are associated with mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder.

The genetic explanation and vulnerability to mental disorders

The genetic explanation suggests that mental illnesses can be passed down through families via genes. This perspective highlights that individuals may inherit a predisposition to certain disorders.

Understanding genetic transmission and vulnerability

• Genetic vulnerability - Having a family history of mental illness raises the risk of developing mental disorders.

The brain abnormality explanation and its link to specific disorders

The brain abnormality explanation connects mental illness to structural or functional differences in the brain.

Brain abnormalities and associated disorders

• Depression - Linked to reduced activity or volume in areas like the hippocampus.
• Schizophrenia - Associated with abnormalities such as enlarged ventricles or disrupted connectivity between brain regions.
• Bipolar disorder - Connected to irregular activity in areas controlling mood.

Methods for identifying brain abnormalities

• Positron emission tomography (PET) - A scanning technique that can reveal abnormal patterns of activity or metabolism in the brain linked to mental illnesses.