Evaluation for biological theories; (genetic)

Question 1

Evaluations for XYY syndrome

Answer 1

• 15 in 1000 prisoners is substantial figure, provides credibility to theory
• genetic abnormalities prevalent; doesn’t signal aggression
• Theilgaard argued XYY genes were not linked to aggresison

Question 2

Evaluations for twin studys

Answer 2

• give support to genetic explanations; higher concordance rate between MZ and DZ
• identical twins would have a 100% concordance rate if genes are causes of crime

Question 3

Evaluations for adoption studies

Answer 3

• studies by Hutchings and Mednick show link between adopted children and biological parents
• data about biological family might be kept silent
• older adopted children might be influenced by environment of biological parents
• Gottfred and Hirshi; has little effect on criminality