Biological explanation to offending: Atavistic form

Question 1

Before Lombroso’s atavistic form theory, how was criminal behaviour often explained?

Answer 1

Religious views - bad spirits and possessions

Question 2

Describe the atavistic form:

Answer 2

Referred to criminals as **“genetic throwbacks” **

Different biology to non criminals (innate behaviours)

Lack evolutionary development

Question 3

What did Lombroso mean when he said that criminals lacked evolutionary development?

Answer 3

Savage and untamed nature

Cannot adjust to a civilised society and would turn to crime

Question 4

Describe some characteristics of general criminals as suggested by Lombroso

Answer 4

Extra toes and nipples

Narrow brow

High cheekbones

**Dark skin

Curly hair

Question 5

Explain what “physiological markers” are

Answer 5

Physical characteristics of criminals, often found on the face.

Question 6

What physiological markers did Lombroso link murderers to

Answer 6

Curly hair
Bloodshot eyes
Long ears

Question 7

Describe Lombroso’s research

Answer 7

Examined Facial and cranial features of 383 and 3839 dead and living Itallian convicts.

40% of crimminal acts convicted by people with atavistic charicteristics

Question 8

Strengths of Lombroso’s research
(2)

Answer 8

1) Has changed criminology
Lombroso known as the **father of modern criminology **
Theory influenced offender profiling
First to study scientifically (shift away from religious)

2) His research supports the predictions he has made (40%), adds credibility

Question 9

Weaknesses of Lombroso’s research
(2)

Answer 9

1) Can be seen as racist. Many of the characteristics identified are found along African people. Fits Eugenic attitudes.

2) Research is correlational. Does not tell us about causation. Agnew (1992) argued that having unpleasant features lead to anger and frustration - Crime. (Ignores environment)