inherited criminality

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Created by
Eibhleann Moore

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  • this theory suggests that some people inherit a biological predisposition to commit crime.
    it may be that someone has the gene for impulsivity, thus making them fearless, and more likely to commit crime.
  • evidence
    much of the supporting evidence for this theory comes from twin, adoption and family studies.
  • evidence
    • Raine (1993) reviewed the literature comparing the delinquent behaviour of twins, and found that the average concordance rate was higher for monozygotic twins (52%,) than dizygotic twins (21%.)
    • the fact that twins with identical genes have a much higher concordance rate than fraternal twins, with different genes, suggest a genetic basis for crime.
  • evidence
    Farrington (2002) reported on criminal behaviour, and found that if the father had been arrested, there was a high chance the son would've been aswell.
    they also found that if one person in the wider family had been arrested, there was a high probability that another family member would've also been arrested.
  • genes
    the gene monoamine oxidase A (MAOA,) which helps to recycle the neurotransmitter serotonin, has been linked to criminal behaviour.
  • genes
    Brunner et al. (1993) studied a Dutch family, many of whom had histories of impulsive and violent criminal behaviours, and found that their behaviour was linked to a mutation in the MAOA gene, leading to abnormally low levels of serotonin.
    this could possibly account for their aggressive behaviour.
  • epigenetics
    suggests that the genes we inherit from our parents can be switched on and off by experiences throughout life.
    it may be that someone may have the gene for the criminal behaviour, but it is only as expressed as their behaviour if the gene is "switched on."
  • epigenetics
    • Capsi et al. (2002) found that 12% of men with low MAOA gene experienced maltreatment as children - these men were responsible for 44% of violent crimes.
    • genes combined with other factors such as the environment may be better explanations for criminal behaviour than genes alone.