Biological Theories of Criminal Behavior

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on biological theories of criminal behavior, including physiological theories, somatotype theory, and genetic explanations.

What are the main focuses of physiological theories regarding criminality?

They believe that physiology of offenders differs from non-offenders.

What is Lombroso's theory of atavism?

Lombroso suggested that criminals have physical traits inherited from a 'born criminal' type.

What percentage of criminal acts did Lombroso attribute to atavism?

40%.

What are some characteristics associated with Lombroso’s atavistic features?

Too small/big ears, excessive wrinkles, long arms, prominent eyebrow arches.

What is the primary body type associated with Sheldon’s somatotype theory as most likely to commit crime?

Mesomorphs.

What is the average mesomorph rating for delinquents compared to college students according to Sheldon?

Delinquents: 4.6, College students: 3.8.

What is the conclusion of Christiansen’s twin study regarding monozygotic and dizygotic twins?

A higher concordance rate of 35% for monozygotic twins supports the idea that criminality is heritable.

What do adoption studies aim to distinguish in terms of criminal behavior?

Whether criminal behavior is due to genetic factors (nature) or environmental factors (nurture).

What was the concordance rate of criminality among Danish adopted sons with their biological parents compared to adoptive parents?

20% with biological parents vs. roughly 15% with adoptive parents.

What condition is associated with the XYY chromosome theory in relation to criminal behavior?

It suggests that an extra Y chromosome may lead to higher aggression and criminal tendencies.

What proportion of inmates are reportedly XYY men according to Jacob's study?

15 per 1000 inmates.

How does Jacob's XYY theory address the relationship between biology and criminality?

It suggests that the extra Y chromosome influences aggressive behavior, leading to criminality.

What is a key weakness of deterministic theories in explaining criminal behavior?

They ignore the possibility of free will and conscious choice in committing crimes.

What does it mean when a theory is described as reductionist?

It simplifies complex behaviors into overly simplistic explanations, missing other contributing factors.