Atavistic Form

Question 1

Who proposed Atavistic Form?

Answer 1

Lombroso

Question 2

What is Atavistic Form?

Answer 2

A historical, biological explanation of offending that proposes criminals are at an earlier stage of evolutionary development and are therefore unable to adjust to modern society, meaning they turn to crime

Question 3

What are 6 Atavistic characteristics Lombroso identified?

Answer 3

• Narrow, sloping brow
• High cheekbones
• Facial asymmetry
• Dark skin
• Strong, prominent jaw
• Extra toes, fingers, etc.

Question 4

How did Lombroso classify specific types of offenders?

Answer 4

Based on their physical characteristics

Question 5

What is an example of Lombroso characterising specific offender types based on their physical characteristics?

Answer 5

Murderers, which he characterised as having bloodshot eyes, curly hair and long ears

Question 6

How did Lombroso describe those with Atavistic Form?

Answer 6

As being ‘genetic throwbacks’

Question 7

Describe Lombroso’s Italian convict study

Answer 7

• He measured the facial and cranial features of 4222 living and dead Italian convicts
• He concluded that 40% of crimes can be attributed to people with Atavistic characteristics

Question 8

Why is Atavistic Form highly socially sensitive?

Answer 8

Many Atavistic characteristics that Lombroso identified are typical of ethnic minorities (e.g. dark skin). This may result in racism and prejudice.

Question 9

What evidence contradicts Atavistic Form?

Answer 9

• Goring, who 3000 offenders and 3000 non-offenders in terms of their physical attributes
• He concluded there was no evidence that the offenders were somehow physically atypical

Question 10

What type of determinism is Atavistic Form?

Answer 10

Biological

Question 11

Does Lombroso’s supporting evidence for Atavistic Form meet the level of significance required for socially sensitive research?

Answer 11

No: he concluded just 40% of crimes could be attributed to those with Atavistic characteristics

Question 12

How has Lombroso’s Italian Convict Study been praised?

Answer 12

For his use of precise measuring equipment, boosting its scientific credibility

Question 13

Why is Lombroso recognised as the “Father of Criminology”? (3 Points)

Answer 13

• He kickstarted research in the field by being the first to recognise that offenders may be predisposed to commit crime rather than just being ‘evil’ or lacking morals
• He promoted a more scientific approach to crime
• His contribution was built upon by others, leading to further research and theories within the criminological field