A Level Psychology OCR Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Barkley-Levenson and Galvan's research showcases a blend of both reductionism and holism by illustrating how different levels of analysis interact, particularly focusing on the relationship between brain development and behavior. Their studies examine the neurological underpinnings of decision-making processes, highlighting how certain brain regions are activated during tasks, which suggests a reductionist perspective by isolating specific biological factors influencing behavior.

However, their findings also emphasize the importance of social and emotional contexts, indicating a holistic viewpoint where individual experiences and developmental stages contribute to behavioral outcomes. Consequently, their approach integrates both perspectives, acknowledging that understanding behavior requires consideration of biological mechanisms while also recognizing the role of broader psychological and environmental influences. This comprehensive view aligns with the idea that neither reductionism nor holism alone can fully explain complex human behaviors, thus representing a nuanced understanding that incorporates elements of both.