Biological Explanarions Of Offending Flashcards
Atavistic form theory
The earliest theory to explain offending behaviour came from Lombroso in 1870. He believed that criminals had distinguishing physical features, which originated from a more primitive stage of development and these features were said to be atavistic.
Lombroso Study - atavistic form
Measured the physical features of Italian criminals. The sample contained almost 4000 living criminals and the skulls of 400 dead criminals who were all male
Examples found included heavy brow, large, strong jaw, high cheekbones, extra nipples, extra fingers/toes
He also suggested that different types of criminal have different features such as sex offenders having thicker lips
43% had at least 5 atavistic traits
EVALUATION- Lombroso atavistic form theory
Strength - support his theory with research - explain research - objective and factua - however no control group and physical features may be coincidental
Goring attempted to replicate findings by comparing a large group of offenders with a control of non criminals but found no significant differences between the two - therefore atavism may not be linked to offending - may be interaction of physical features and environment eg due to treatment
Kaplan self derogation theory argues if others experience persistently poor interactions they will develop low self esteem and increased frustration making them more likely to commit criminal behaviour - environmental factors predominant cause - however implications of it being socially sensitive
Genetic explanations to offending - chromosomes
People who are born with an extra Y chromosome have a predisposition to offending due to increased testosterone. Increased testosterone levels have been found it be correlated with increased aggressive behaviour in males with 47 XYY syndrome
Genetic explanations - what can the XYY chromosome cause
Emotional immaturity
Poor socialisation
Instability
Extreme aggressiveness
Low IQ
EVALUATION of the genetic explanation to offending
