Raine et al 1997 Biological - Neuroanatomy

Question 1

Aim

Answer 1

To look at direct measures of both cortical and subcortical brain functioning using PET scans in a group of murders who have pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.

Question 2

Participants

Answer 2

41 murders (39M 2F) pleading NGRI, compared with 41 controls matched on age, sex and diagnosis.

mean age of 34.3yrs

Question 3

Methods

Answer 3

Independent measures Design - Quasi

Question 4

Procedure

Answer 4

infected with glucose tracer and then given a PET scan, compared with the controls on the level of activity in the right/left hemispheres in 14 selected areas (6 cortical, 8 subcortical)

Question 5

Results

Answer 5

NGRI’s had less activity in their prefrontal and parietal areas, or activity in their occipital areas and no difference in their temporal areas. less activity in the corpus callosum, imbalance between the hemispheres.

Question 6

Conclusions:

Answer 6

Research supports previous findings about the role of certain brain structures in violent behaviour, suggested that differences in activity in the amygdala supports theories that violence is a result unusual emotional responses.