Biological Explanations

Biological Explanations for Criminal Behaviour

The Role of Genetics

  • Suggests that criminal behaviour may have a genetic basis, indicating a possible hereditary aspect to crime.
  • Twin studies often cited as evidence, showing greater concordance in identical twins for criminal behaviour than in non-identical ones.
  • Adoption studies also provide support, showing a higher correlation between criminal behaviour of biological parents and adopted-away children than adoptive parents.

The Influence of Neurophysiology

  • Damage or dysfunctions in certain areas of the brain may lead to increased aggression, impulsivity, and thus, a predisposition to crime.
  • Key areas implicated include the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in decision-making and impulse control, and the amygdala, linked to fear and aggression.
  • Neurotransmitter imbalance, particularly low serotonin and high dopamine levels, has also been associated with aggression and impulsive behaviour.

The XYY Syndrome

  • Men with an extra Y chromosome, known as XYY syndrome, have been proposed to be more prone to criminal behaviour.
  • The extra Y chromosome is believed to increase aggression due to increased testosterone production.
  • However, many people with XYY syndrome lead normal lives and do not exhibit increased aggression, thus this theory is not universally agreed upon.

Hormonal Influences

  • Criminal behaviour may also be linked to hormonal imbalances like high testosterone levels, often associated with aggression.
  • It is, however, important to note that the relationship may not be direct as environmental factors like stress may also influence hormone level.

Biosocial Theory

  • Suggests a combination of biological factors like genetic and neurophysiological predispositions, and socio-environmental factors for the emergence of criminal behaviour.
  • It argues that biological factors can make certain individuals more vulnerable to certain environments, thus increasing their likelihood of engaging in crime.
  • Thus, biological predispositions by themselves may not be sufficient, but they could interact with environmental factors like poor upbringing or high stress to result in criminal tendencies.