Atavistic form - AO1 Flashcards
What is the historical approach?
Lombroso wrote a book in which he suggested that criminals were “genetic throwbacks”
A primitive subspecies who were biologically different from non-criminals
How were offenders seen?
Lacking evolutionary development, find it impossible to adjust to the demands of civilised society and turn to crime
What was offending behaviour caused by?
Natural tendency rooted in the genes of those who engage in it
- Offender was not to blame, behaviour was innate
What are the characteristics of atavistic form?
6x
- Narrow, sloping brow
- High cheekbones
- Dark skin
- Strong, prominent jaw
- Facial asymmetry
- Extra toes, nipples, fingers
What are other aspects of atavistic form?
3x
- Insensitivity to pain
- Use of slang
- Tattoos and unemployment
What are characteristics of murderers?
3x
- Bloodshot eyes
- Curly hair
- Long ears
What are characteristics of sexual deviants?
3x
- Glinting eyes
- Swollen, fleshy lips
- Projecting ears
What are characteristics of fraudsters?
Thin and ready lips
What was Lombroso’s research?
He examined the skulls of 383 dead convicts and 3859 living ones
Concluded that 40% of criminal acts are committed by people with atavistic characteristics
