AC 2.1 Flashcards
What are the 2 subcategories of biological theories of crime
Genetic and physiological
What does genetics mean
DNA, Inherited characteristics
What does physiological mean
Biological processes
What are 3 genetic theories (biological)
Jacobs XYY, Twin studies, Adoption studies.
What are 2 Physiological theories (biological)
Lombroso, Sheldon
What is Jacobs XYY overall argument
XYY- a male has an extra Y chromosome (47 in total) which can lead to the idea of a supermale. These people theoretically have lower intelligence, behavioural problems, are overly aggressive and lack empathy leading to being more prone to criminality.
What does Jacobs XYY suggest
Criminal behaviour is genetic, a biological factor and we can predict criminal behaviour. Nature over nurture.
Evaluation points in support of Jacobs XYY
IQ scores amongst convicted offenders are marginally lower, have increased chances of learning disabilities
Evaluations points (limitations) of Jacobs XYY
Ignores the behaviourist approach, Studies are carried out in prisons and mental health institutions (narrow and selective meaning the study is not representative), Testosterone levels are proven no different, women also commit crime, many with XYY will never know and never commit crime.
What is the Twin studies over all argument
Uses concordance rates to determine if people will display criminal behaviour as well as their twin (nature over nurture)
Define concordance rate
The likelihood that if one twin has a certain trait, the other will also have the same trait.
Define monozygotic
Identical (same genetic makeup)
Define dizygotic
Non-identical (similar but different genetic makeup)
Studies on twins
Lange and Christiansen
What do the studies on twins show (Lange and Christiansen)
Shows concordance rate between monozygotic and dizygotic siblings. Infers that MZ are more likely to commit crimes. (Christiansen’s study shows more credibility/possibility)