Which of the following is an example of a biological factor that can influence risk for mental illness?

• A. Social isolation
• B. Genetic predisposition
• C. Time management
• D. Sleep hygiene

Answer: (B)

Biological factors are those rooted in our biology, such as genes and inherited biological processes. A genetic predisposition fits this because it means certain individuals inherit variations that can make mental illness more likely, reflecting an innate biological vulnerability that can influence risk. In contrast, social isolation relates to the social environment and relationships, time management is about cognitive coping strategies, and sleep hygiene involves behaviors that affect well-being but are not in themselves inherited biology. Understanding genetic predisposition helps explain why some people are more vulnerable to mental illness even before any symptoms appear, which is why it’s the best example of a biological factor in this context.