2.1-Biological theories

Question 1

What are the 2 physiological theories

Answer 1

Lombroso- ‘Born criminal’
Sheldon-Somatotype

Question 2

Outline Sheldon’s somatotype theory

Answer 2

Sees criminals as physically different to non-criminals.
Endomorph- bigger, lacks muscle- sociable and outgoing
Ectomorph- tall and skinny- introverted and thoughtful
Mesomorph- Muscular- assertive, adventurous, risk taking
Mesomorphs are most likely to be criminals as they are risk-takers

Question 3

What are the 3 genetic theories

Answer 3

Jacobs XYY theory
Twin studies
Adoption studies

Question 4

Outline Jacob’s XYY study

Answer 4

Men can be born with an extra Y chromosome. This is known as XYY syndrome. Jacob claimed that XYY men were more aggressive than other men. 1/1000 men in general suffer XYY syndrome. However 15/1000 people suffer from it in prison.

Question 5

What are the other 2 biological theories

Answer 5

Brain injuries and disorders
Biochemical explanations

Question 6

Outline evidence for brain injuries and disorders

Answer 6

Railway worker Phineas Gage whole personality changed after a brain injury.
Some studies have shown prisoners are more likely to have suffered a brain injury