Criminology final exam

What is the definition of heritability

Refers to the amount of variance or differences in traits that is due to genetic factors.

What is the evolutionary neuroandrogenic theory

It suggests that certain behaviors and traits can be explained by evolutionary processes and the influence of androgens on the developing brain.

What are the two fundamental assumptions of evolutionary neuroandrogenic theory

1. The desire for status is genetic or unlearned

2. Techniques for status striving must be learned

What are the traits with high heritability

• altruism

• aggression

• empathy

• self control

What is the definition of evolution

The process by which populations change over time through genetic variation and natural selection.

What is the definition of natural selection

The mechanism by which individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to changes in the traits of a population over time.

From a biological standpoint, what are the primary inlfuencex on behavior

genes

What behavior result from

the interaction of genes and environment

Criminal behavior is a way to acquire valued resources by exploiting and deceiving others

true

Criminal behavior is normal from an evolutionary perspective and must have served a purpose at some point

true

Most people have elvolved to cooperate and build trust, reducing the need for criminal behavior

true

What can happen after the prefrontal cortex is damaged

damage can lead to antisocial behavior

What is another name for identical twins

monozygotic twins

What is the name for fraternal twins

dizygotic twins

What is the Behavioral Activating System

associated with pleasure areas and is regulated by the neuro transmitter called dopamine

What is the reward dominance theory

States that the behavior is regulated by the behavioral activating system and behavioral inhibition system

What is the behavioral inhibition system

controls behavior through a neurotransmitter called serotonin

What age range is most associated with criminal activity

15-25 and is consistent between cultures

What is puberty

The period of sexual maturation during which an individual becomes capable of reproduction, typically occurring between ages 10 and 14 for girls and 12 to 16 for boys.

Which is dopamine associated with

behavioral activation system

What is associated with poor parenting

serotonin

According to Agnew’s Super Traits Theory, what are the five life domains that contain possible crime-generating factors?

Personality, family, school, peers, work.

According to Agnew’s Super Traits Theory, what are the two 'super traits' of the personality domain?

Low self-control and irritability.

According to Moffitt’s Dual-Pathway theory, what are the two types of offenders?

Life Course Persistent Offenders (LCP) and Adolescent Limited Offenders (AL).

According to Sampson & Laub’s Life Course Theory, what are turning points?

transitions or life events that occur, which may change a person’s life trajectory in a prosocial direction.

What is the general focus of developmental theories in criminology

• Onset

• Frequency

• duration

• seriousness

• desistance of offending

What is the female parenting effort

that emphasizes nurturing and teaching children to avoid delinquency and criminal behavior.

What is the male parenting effort

the involvement and investment of fathers in the upbringing of their children, which can influence child outcomes and reduce delinquency.