Twin Studies

Question 1

Describe

Answer 1

• Monozygotic twins share the same genes so if one twin is criminal, then the other ought to be criminal too.
  Christiansen’s theory
• 52% concordance rate between Mz twins
• 22% concordance rate between Dz twins

Question 2

Strengths

Answer 2

• Logical theory if they share the same genes.
• It is scientific and therefore accurate.
• Other studies like Christiansen’s theory have supported parts of this theory.

Question 3

Weaknesses

Answer 3

• If genetics was the only explanation for criminality then the concordance rate is 100%.
• Usually twins are brought up in the same environment so nurture can be just as important in explaining criminality.