'The biochemical explanation is the only scientific explanation for impulse control disorders.' To what extent do you agree with this statement? Use examples of research you have studied to support your answer.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2019). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. Marks: use generic levels of response in table C.
2. Syllabus: causes of impulse control disorders and non-substance addictive disorder; biochemical: dopamine
3. Most likely (any other appropriate responses should be credited):
4. For:
5. Biochemical explanations are scientific in that their function can easily be tested and results are reliable and valid. Data is mainly objective.
6. Experiments can be conducted with variables controlled and cause and effect being shown.
7. Studies have shown e.g. Vroon et al. (2010) the function of dopamine.
8. Against:
9. Biochemical explanations are reductionist in that 'dopamine' works in conjunction with other systems e.g. as shown in Miller's (2010) feelings-states theory.
10. There are alternative explanations for impulse control disorders (e.g. cognitive behavioural)
11. Alternative explanations such as 'positive reinforcement' is based on observable behaviour which is also objective and measureable.