Physiological theories

Question 1

Lombroso

Answer 1

• Lombroso stated that criminals could be distinguished by atavistic features (large jaw, high cheek bones, monobrow).
• They were also atavistic in the sense of being anti-social and reduced sense of pain.
• Work led to the beginning of criminal profiling.
• Not all humans with atavistic features are criminals.

Question 2

Shelton’s Somatotypes

Answer 2

• Sheldon said there are three types of somatotype, mesomorphs, endomorphs and ectomorphs.
• Mesomorphs are large and muscular.
• Endomorphs are small and round.
• Ectomorphs are skinny and tall.
• He found that mesomorphs are more likely to commit crimes.
• Good sized sample was used.
• He did not state what the other somatotypes link to crime was.