Animal research and animal models
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Question
What is an animal model?
Answer
Using an animal to study a process that also happens in humans, because of shared biology.
Question
Why do psychologists use animal models?
Answer
Shared biology, tighter control, testing risky methods safely first, and faster life cycles.
Question
What does it mean to 'generalise' findings?
Answer
To apply a result from one group (the animals) to another (humans) — done with caution.
Question
Why generalise animal findings with caution?
Answer
Animals and humans share a lot but also differ, so a result may not fully transfer.
Question
What are the 3Rs?
Answer
Replacement (use another method), Reduction (fewer animals), Refinement (less suffering).
Question
What is Replacement?
Answer
Using a non-animal method instead of animals wherever possible, such as computer or cell studies.
Question
What is Reduction?
Answer
Using as few animals as possible while still getting clear results.
Question
What is Refinement?
Answer
Changing how animals are treated to reduce any pain or suffering.
Question
What is a cost-benefit analysis in animal research?
Answer
Weighing the harm a study causes animals against the good it may do, before it is allowed.
Question
Which concept does animal research most raise?
Answer
Responsibility — researchers have power over the animals and must protect their welfare.
Question
One strength of animal research?
Answer
It allows tightly controlled studies and lets risky methods be tested safely before humans.
Question
One ethical concern of animal research?
Answer
Animals can suffer and cannot give consent, so the harm may not always be justified.
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Topic 2.1 hub
Biological approach
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