class 10 - Trait Theory Flashcards
What is the main idea of trait theories in criminology?
The belief that criminals have physical or mental traits that make them different or abnormal.
Do trait theories suggest a single cause for criminal behavior?
No, they argue that there is no single biological or psychological attribute that fully explains criminal behavior.
What human drives do trait theories focus on?
Aggression, violence, and impulsivity.
How are aggression, violence, and impulsivity linked to crime?
They are associated with anti-social behavior, which increases the likelihood of criminal activity.
What two factors contribute to criminal behavior according to trait theories?
Personal traits and environmental factors.
What are the two major divisions of trait theories?
Biological and Psychological.
What did Lombroso and early theorists believe about criminals?
They believed in “born criminals” but did not use control groups, and many traits they assumed were inherited were actually influenced by poor nutrition, toxic environments, and lack of healthcare.
What is sociobiology?
The idea that human behavior is motivated by biological urges and desires, such as survival and reproduction.
How do modern biological theories explain behavior?
They suggest that physical, environmental, and social conditions together shape behavior.
What is equipotentiality?
The belief that all individuals are born equal and later influenced by their environment.
What are instincts in biological theories?
Routine actions and behaviors that are automatically known and performed.
How do biochemical conditions influence behavior?
They can control and influence antisocial behavior through both genetic predisposition and environmental factors like diet.
What are some biochemical factors linked to criminal behavior?
Nutritional deficiencies, sugar intake, hypoglycemia, hormonal influences, PMS, allergies, and environmental contaminants.
How strong is the evidence for biochemical influences on crime?
Some research shows strong support, but other studies are less conclusive.
How is human behavior linked to genetic factors?
Traits like openness, conscientiousness, extroversion, and agreeableness have been connected to behavior.
What inherited traits have been linked to criminality?
Aggression, psychopathy, impulsivity, neuroticism, and some psychopathological conditions like schizophrenia.
What are twin and adoption studies used for in criminology?
To determine how much genetic versus environmental factors influence criminal behavior.
What is the “contagion effect” in genetics and crime?
The idea that siblings in the same environment may influence each other’s behavior, especially if one is deviant.
How might younger siblings be influenced by older siblings’ behavior?
Younger siblings may imitate the behavior of older siblings, increasing the likelihood of shared deviant behavior.
How do evolutionary theories explain criminal behavior?
Traits evolved over time to promote survival and reproduction, influencing criminal patterns and behavior.
How does jealousy relate to crime from an evolutionary perspective?
It developed to keep families intact and ensure reproductive success.
How does aggression differ between men and women in evolutionary theory?
Men benefit from being risk-takers, while women benefit from being risk-averse.
What is r/K selection theory?
A theory describing different reproductive strategies:
r-selection: Reproduce often, invest little in offspring, more deceptive
K-selection: Reproduce slowly, invest heavily in offspring, more cooperative
What is “Cheater Theory” in evolutionary criminology?
A subpopulation of men evolved with traits signaling low parental involvement, sexual aggression, and deception in reproductive strategies.
