Biological Theories

Question 1

Describe Lombrosos theory

Answer 1

Physiological theory
Atavistic features - big nose - long arms
Animalistic tendencies to be aggressive

Question 2

Describe Sheldon’s theory

Answer 2

Mesomorphs body type (muscular, strong limbs) linked to adventurous and risk taking personality
More likely to enjoy risks of crime
Body type more likely to be involved in violent crime

Question 3

Describe Jacobs theory

Answer 3

Genetic theory
XYY chromosome abnormality in men
Supermale syndrome
Increased testosterone and behaviour problems
More likely to be aggressive and commit crimes

Question 4

Describe Mednick theory

Answer 4

Children more likely to be criminal if birth parent is also a criminal
Compared with children with adopted parents to test nature vs nurture

Question 5

Adoption studies example

Answer 5

Jeffery Landrigan - adopted by a rich kind family
By age 10 had alcohol abuse problems
Age 20 arrested for murder
Biological father and grandfather also involved in murder, armed robbery and drug abuse