L5.1 - Genetic Explanations

Question 1

What does the genetic explanation state?

Answer 1

Offenders inherit a gene/combination that predisposes them to commit crime

Question 2

Criminal behaviour may be polygenic. What are the genes that possibly cause the behaviour called?

Answer 2

Candidate genes

Question 3

Example of a gene beginning with M

Answer 3

MAOA

controls dopamine and serotonin in levels which are linked to aggression

Question 4

What is the diathesis-stress model?

Answer 4

Genetic vulnerability
Need environmental stimulus to trigger the gene
Environment moderates gene expression

Question 5

Example of gene beginning with C

Answer 5

CDH13

linked to attention deficit disorder and substance abuse

Question 6

Finnish study found having both genes makes…

Answer 6

Having a history of violent offending 13x more likely

Question 7

+ related to diathesis-stress model

Answer 7

Supported as genetic vulnerability

May need trigger but do need genes in the first place for criminal behaviour

Question 8

• related to twin studies

Answer 8

Often use them
Small samples of unusual
May not represent target population

Question 9

• related to determinism

Answer 9

May have gene but doesn’t guarantee offending
Minimises free will
Reduces criminal responsibility