Born A Criminal? Flashcards
Biological theories
Something genetically wrong with criminals
Lombroso
19th century
- criminals had abnormal physical characteristics that distinguished them from the rest of the population
19th century doctor - physical characteristics
Lombroso
How could criminals be identified?
Large jaw, monobrow, large cheekbones, big ears, extra fingers/ toes/ nipples
However, this generally (biological theory)
Reflects a more ‘primitive human’
Psychological theories
Also link genetics to criminality but focus on personality traits
How is a criminals brain ‘different’?
Additional Y chromosomes
Brain abnormalities
Evaluation
Not all people with these characteristics commit crime
- these explanations to not explain meaning behind the crime