Genetic Theories Flashcards
(6 cards)
What did Christiansen do?
Researched the correlation between genetics & criminal by studying fraternal & identical twins. He used records from Denmark,to examine criminal history of both types of twins to see criminal behaviour was which more common in.
What aid Christiansen find?
Higher correlation in identical twins - more likely for both to commit crimes. Suggested a genetic influence on crime. Snowed there might be a heredity component to criminal behaviour
What did Christiansen conclude?
Genetic influence - genetic predisposition for criminal behaviour, likely influenced by both genetic and environmental.
Interactions between genes and environment - supported idea of nature and utter interact in the development of criminal behaviour.
What were Christiansen’s strengths?
Scientific approach - empirical data from large population, providing a valuable insight to relationship between genetic and crime.
Influential research - criminal behaviour might have a genetic component to help shape criminological theories
Twin study method - helps to isolate the effects of genetics from environmental factors.
What were Christiansen’s weaknesses?
Limited causality - couldn’t prove causation, exact role of genetics vs environment remained unclear.
Sample bias - not representative of other populations, limits generalisability of findings.
Environmental influences - not fully account for environmental factors, critical for understanding criminal behaviour
What were Christiansen’s social polices?
Potential for eugenics - ethical concerns, lead to discrimination or eugenics related practices.
Focus on early intervention for at risk patients
Genetic screening and editing- test for genetic traits and alter persons DNA.
