Physiological Theories

Question 1

Cesare Lombroso- what was his theory of criminality?

Answer 1

That criminals are a different species of humans, between primitive humans and modern humans

Question 2

Cesare Lombroso- what type of characteristics did “primitive/born” criminals have.

Answer 2

• large or forward projection of the jaw
• high cheekbones
• flattened or upturn nose
• low, sloping forehead
• long arms relative to lower limbs
• large ears

Question 3

Cesare Lombroso- what type of proof is there in his theory?

Answer 3

He examined the facial and cranial features of 383 dead criminals and 3,839 living criminals and 40% of them have atavistic features.

Question 4

William Sheldon- what is his theory

Answer 4

Criminal behaviour is linked to a person’s physical form.

Question 5

William Sheldon- what types of body types does his theory have?

Answer 5

• Endomorphic (fat and soft) sociable and relaxed
• Ectomorphic (thin and fragile) introverted and restrained
• mesomprphic (muscular and hard) aggressive and adventurous

Question 6

Brain damage/abnormality- what does this theory suggests?

Answer 6

Damage to the pre-frontal cortex of the brain may cause the individuals to have an altered behaviour pattern.

Question 7

What example coincides with the brain abnormality theory?

Answer 7

Phineas Cage- a large pipe went through his head changing his personality too become more extravagant and anti-social, used bad language, bad manners and became a liar, because he lost the part of the brain that controls the mental and emotional functions.