Topic 2.1- Sheldon's Somatotypes Theory (physiological theory)

Question 1

When was the research conducted?

Answer 1

1949

Question 2

What sort of body type did he associate with criminal behaviour?

Answer 2

.Mesomorphs that are shown to be muscular and hard bodied, their physique imposes an attraction to risk taking. Least likely were ectomorphic which are thin and fragile, lacking both fat and muscle and are more self-conscious.

Question 3

Strengths of this theory

Answer 3

.Gleuck and Gleuck had found that 60% of the offenders where mesomoprhs
.most serious offenders were found with mesomorphic body types

Question 4

Limitations of the theory

Answer 4

.body types change throughout lifetimes
.labelling may occur as to which mesomorphs may be more targeted by police