Biological explanations - The atavistic form

Question 1

What biological explanation did Lombroso suggest?

Answer 1

Atavistic form; criminals had physical features that originated from a more primitive stage of development, suggesting that criminals were less civilised (historical approach from the 1870s)

Question 2

Name some atavistic features

Answer 2

A heavy brow, large strong jaw, large ears, extra nipples/fingers/toes

Question 3

Who were Lombroso’s sample?

Answer 3

He only studied Sicilians, who look very different from other Italians and non-Italians because they are an island, therefore the sample is unrepresentative of the rest of the world (cadavers and living)

Question 4

Who conducted Lombroso’s study in Britain and failed to replicate his findings?

Answer 4

Goring

Question 5

What does Agnew suggest?

Answer 5

General strain theory, which is the theory that unwanted and unpleasant interactions can increase frustration and anger