In your studies of biological psychology, you will have learned about the infradian rhythm of the menstrual cycle.
Describe the infradian rhythm of the menstrual cycle.
AO1 (4 marks)
Credit up to four marks for accurate description
For example:
- The menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days on average and is
regulated by hormones (1). Oestrogen levels are at their highest
about half way through the cycle when females ovulate (1). In the
second half of the menstrual cycle progesterone levels increase in
case the egg is fertilised (1). If the egg does not implant in the
womb the progesterone levels decrease and the lining of the
womb is shed (1).
Look for other reasonable marking points.
(4)
Explain two strengths of infradian rhythms as an explanation of human behaviour.
(4)
1
2
AO1 (2 marks), AO3 (2 marks)
Credit one mark for accurate identification of each strength (AO1)
Credit one mark for justification/exemplification of each strength (AO3)
For example:
- Penton-Voak et al. (1999) found that the menstrual cycle can
have an effect on the types of male faces women prefer showing
infradian rhythms do affect our behaviour (1), as women
preferred more masculine face during their most fertile time in the
cycle, so the infradian rhythm affects who we find desirable (1).
- Dalton (1964) found that pre-menstrual syndrome was associated
with an increase in crimes, suicides and accidents which suggests
that infradian rhythms affect human behaviour (1) as there was a
negative impact on female behaviour at this stage in the cycle so
giving the explanation plausibility (1).
Look for other reasonable marking points.
(4)