Genetic Explantions

Question 1

Brunner’s explanation of criminality

Answer 1

A genetic condition which makes males more aggressive as they have a low MAOA production levels leading to less metabolism of the neurotransmitter of serotonin which links to aggression. The conclusion here is that individuals can inherit genetic condition which make them prone to offending behaviour.

Question 2

Evidence for Brunner’s theory

Answer 2

Adoption studies as it separates nature and nurture. If crime has a genetic component then an adopted child should still experience the influence of biological parent despite not living with them.

Question 3

Against Brunner’s theory

Answer 3

Dunedin study followed 1,000 New Zealand’s to see if the gene led to crime. People who did commit crime with this gene normally had a difficult childhood, but many people have this gene and don’t commit violent crimes. So in conclusion there must be multiple factors that affect why we commit crimes.

Question 4

Jacob et al theory

Answer 4

XYY males have an extra Y chromosome and are sometimes referred to as super males, they seem to be more aggressive and inclines to violence.

Question 5

Characteristics of XYY

Answer 5

Extreme height, facial acne, long arm span, aggressive, anti social behaviour, severe mental illness.

Question 6

Disadvantage of XYY study

Answer 6

In the studies is when they were finding men with this gene they only looked in prisons. Also if a criminal has these indicators they will automatically assume they are when they might not be.

Question 7

Link between XYY and criminality

Answer 7

The gene can cause aggression which means that some people commit crimes because they become aggressive.

Question 8

Study that disproves XYY

Answer 8

A Scottish study disproves this as most people who had this gene committed crimes against property not against people.