Biological Theories of Criminality Flashcards

Flashcards about biological theories of criminality.

Death penalty

The ultimate way to deal with a person who is genetically driven to commit crime, abolished in the UK in 1969. Studies show it doesn't lower crime rates.

Eugenics

A policy, endorsed by the Nazi party, that aimed to prevent the birth of people with criminal genes.

Serotonin

Aggressive prisoners held lower levels of this, and prisons encouraged oily fish in the diet to increase it.

Phrenology (Lombroso)

The 'born criminal'/ atavism theory where criminals are seen as primitive humans, determined by head and face shape.

Endomorphic

A body type that is fat and soft, with individuals tending to be sociable and relaxed.

Ectomorphic

A body type that is thin and fragile, with individuals tending to be introverted and restrained.

Mesomorphic

A body type that is muscular and hard, with individuals tending to be more aggressive and adventurous.

Neurochemistry

Changes in the body's chemistry can lead to changes within the brain, potentially causing aggression or involuntary movements.

Steroids

Misuse of these may contribute to higher aggression levels, known as 'roid rage'.