Topic 2.1- Lombroso (physiological theories)

Question 1

Lombroso (physiological theories)- what does the theory suggest?

Answer 1

.that physiology is the main cause of crime, by reading characteristics that are considered abnormal
.people with atavistic features are more likely to commit crime - primitive features, ape-like

Question 2

When was Lombroso’s research carried out and how?

Answer 2

WHEN: 1876
HOW: he examined the skulls of deceased criminals and facial features of prisoners, and studied the familiar shape and details of the heads

Question 3

What specific features did Lombroso associate with criminal behaviour?

Answer 3

.prominent jaws and eyebrow arches
.larger eye sockets
.higher cheek bones
.having lots of tattoos, showing a reduced sensitivity to pain
.murderers had ‘aquiline’ noses
.thieves had flattened noses

Question 4

Strengths of the theory

Answer 4

.he was the first person to study crime scientifically
.his research shows the importance of examining clinical and historical records of criminals

Question 5

Limitations of the theory

Answer 5

.failed to compare his findings to a control group of non criminals
.has no following and supporting evidence from other scientists
.the features shown arent typical in Western Cultures and is viewed as racial profiling
.Not all criminals are caught, and therefore investigated