Biological and Psychological Explanations of Anxiety DisordersResearch has often concluded that no biological or psychological theory can provide a sufficient explanation for anxiety disorders such as depression. The diathesis stress model explains psychological anxiety disorders as an interaction between a predisposition to the disorder and environmental stress. In terms of anxiety disorders, predispositions include aspects of biological and psychological factors. Often the main problem with psychological explanations of anxiety disorders, particularly psychodynamic theory, is that these theories are more difficult to test. With Freud's theory, which is largely based on the workings of the unconscious, it is impossible to prove or disprove. When evidence is presented, it is often inconsistent. For example, Paykel (1981) reviewed studies and found that half of them did not support early loss as an explanation. Freud suggested that development is driven by biological changes. The characteristics of the adult are the consequences of the interaction between these and experience. Biological explanations are more scientific and easier to measure because they use three main methods of evaluation. These are family studies, success studies and adoption studies. Naturally, technology will evolve over time. When analyzing genetic influences, the medical model attempts to identify a specific gene and, although genes appear to be involved, the role of genetic factors in anxiety disorders is extremely complex. Little is also known about the role biochemistry plays in anxiety disorder. We know very little about how neurotransmitters like serotonin actually work. It is difficult to know whether changes in neurotransmitters are a cause or an effect. Biological theories are at best suggestive rather than conclusive. They suggest why some people are predisposed to phobias and why some phobias are more common than others. However, evidence used to support biological theories can often be used to support other alternative environmental explanations. Both theories attempt to explain and seek to treat anxiety disorders, while focusing on different aspects of treatment. When anxiety disorders are treated, the fact that both treatments are often