Which of the following is a biological explanation of mood disorders?

• A. Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine
• B. Maladaptive learned behaviors
• C. Stressful life events and environmental factors
• D. Negative thought patterns and cognitive distortions

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that biological explanations of mood disorders focus on physiological and genetic factors that influence mood regulation.
2. Recognize that neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine play a key role in mood regulation by transmitting signals between nerve cells in the brain.
3. Identify that imbalances or disruptions in these neurotransmitters can lead to symptoms associated with mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder.
4. Contrast this with other explanations such as maladaptive learned behaviors, stressful life events, or cognitive distortions, which are psychological or environmental rather than biological.
5. Conclude that the option mentioning imbalances in neurotransmitters is the biological explanation because it directly relates to brain chemistry and biological processes.