What Makes A Criminal Flashcards
Mesomorph:
Muscular, aggressive and most likely to be a criminal
Ectomorph:
Thin, fragile, introverted
Endomorphic:
Fat, relaxed and sociable
Sheldon (1942)
Proposed the idea of different body types- stated that mesomorphic body types are most likely to become criminals.
Weaknesses of Sheldon’s theory:
Assuming someone is a criminal by their body type makes people around them treat them like a criminal. Thus encouraging them to participate in criminal behaviour
Lombroso (1867):
Suggested criminals have prominent jaws, large ears and elongated four heads.
Plastic surgery for prisoners (overview):
- Self-fulfilling prophecy- villains are ugly
- thought that if you change appearance society will treat you differently and boost self-esteem
What did Lewinson (1965) do?
Conducted 450 facial reconstructions on both male and female criminals
How long did Lewinsons study last?
He observed their behaviour for 10 years
What did the facial reconstructions include?
Broken noses
Removing scars
Deformed ears
Receding chins
What was the immediate reaction after they had the surgery?
A psychological improvement- nicer to other prisoners and guards
How many reoffended with/ without surgery?
With: 15% 3 years after release
Without: 36% 3 years after release
Jacobs et Al genetic abnormality:
-extra Y chromosome was more aggressive and less intelligent than average
Nature, deterministic
Twin studies:
Environment on children has big impact on criminal behaviour
Help parents provide a good upbringing
Adoption studies:
If biological/ adopted parent was criminal- more likely to be criminal also
Nature and nurture
