Biological theories of criminality. Flashcards
Name all biological theories.
XYY Super-male theory, Adoptive theory, Twin studies, Diet, Brain abnormalities, Lombroso’s theory, Sheldon’s somatotypes.
Describe the XYY theory.
The XYY (supermale) chromosomal syndrome may act on the brain’s limbic system (which regulates man’s most primitive drives, including his impulses toward violence) and somehow help trigger violent criminal acts.
Name physical features of the XYY theory.
One of the most noticeable XYY symptoms is the increased height than the average height. Also, the affected boys have widely spaced eyes, a larger head dimension and a curved pinky finger. He may also have low muscles tone and severe acne during adolescence.
Describe Lombroso’s theory of criminality.
Lombroso argued that criminals could be identified through general characteristics they shared with one another, which he designated as composing a criminal type. His core idea was atavism, which means that he understood criminals to be evolutionary throwbacks who were inferior to non criminals.
Name some atavistic features that identify criminals.
Large head shape, Large nose, Large ears, Long arms compared to torso, Fleshy lips, Curly hair, Bloodshot eyes.
What crimes does Lombroso believe that people with curly hair and bloodshot eyes commit?
Murder/violent crimes.
What crimes does Lombroso believe that people with big noses, big ears and fleshy lips commit.
Sexual crimes like: rape, sexual assault and sexual harassment.
Describe Sheldon’s theory of criminology.
Sheldon’s somatotype theory is associated with the biological criminological theories of crime causation, which states that individuals are predisposed to crime based on their genetics. Sheldon’s three body types were a theoretical extension of embryonic development.
What are the three body types Sheldon lists?
Mesomorph, Ectomorph, Endomorph.
What are the physical features of Mesomorphs?
Strong build, Muscular, tall.
What are the physical features of Endomorphs?
Soft bodied, curved, short.
What are the physical features of Ectomorphs?
Tall, Thin, slender.
What are the personal features of Mesomorphs?
Obnoxious, Aggressive, Cold, Confident.
What are the personal features of Endomorphs?
relaxed, comfortable, good-humored, even-tempered, sociable, kind.
What are the personal features of Ectomorphs?
anxious, self-conscious, artistic, thoughtful, quiet, and private.
