neural explanations of offending

Question 1

define neural differences

Answer 1

the dysfunction of the brain and nervous system (which includes activity of the prefrontal cortex and neurotransmitters such a serotonin and dopamine)

Question 2

what is the evidence for neural differences based on

Answer 2

studies on people with APD

Question 3

what does APD stand for

Answer 3

Anti - social personality disorder

Question 4

what is APD associated with

Answer 4

reduced emotional response
a lack of empathy for the feelings of others
and a condition that characterises many convicted criminals

Question 5

FINISH THE SENTENCE

individuals with APD show reduced activity in the ………….

Answer 5

individuals with APD show reduced activity in the pre frontal cortex

Question 6

what is the role of the pre frontal cortex

Answer 6

the part of the brain that regulates emotional behaviour

Question 7

what was the findings of Raine’s (2000) study

Answer 7

11% reduction in the volume of grey matter in the PFC of people with APD compared to control groups, suggesting this was the reason for their offending

Question 8

what is the role of a mirror neuron

Answer 8

a “special” brain cell that is activated in response to personal actions or by watching the action of others

Question 9

what did the research by Keysers show about offenders with APD and empathy

Answer 9

An offender with APD can experience empathy but only when asked

so in this case being “asked” refers to watching someone experiencing pain on a film

Question 10

what did the research by Keysers suggest about empathy

Answer 10

although criminals can and do feel empathy it is not an automatic response. It seems they have a neural switch that can be turned on and off, whereas in non criminal this empathy switch remains on constantly