Describe 1 bio exp + 1 individ diff exp of crim (5+5)

• Biological explanation: inherited criminality

  One biological explanation of criminal behaviour is that it may be inherited through genetic factors. Raine (1993) reviewed twin studies and found a 52% concordance rate for criminal behaviour in monozygotic (MZ) twins, compared to only 21% in dizygotic (DZ) twins, suggesting a strong genetic component. Specific genes, like MAOA (the “warrior gene”) and CDH13, have also been linked to violent crime. Tihonen et Al (2015) found that low activity in these genes was associated with 5-10% of violent crime in Finland. These genes may lead to differences in brain functioning, such as reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex (Raine, 2004) which is linked to poor impulse control. This biological vulnerability may interact with environmental triggers, as shown by Caspi et al (2002) who found that maltreated children with low MAOA were far more likely to be convicted of violent crime.
• Individual differences explanation: cognitive factors

  Cognitive explanations focus on how distorted thinking can lead to criminal behaviour. One example is hostile attribution bias, where individuals misinterpret neutral actions as threatening, leading to aggression and potentially violent crime. Another is minimisation, which involves downplaying the seriousness of criminal acts. For instance, a burglar might justify their actions by claiming it doesn’t really harm a wealthy victim. These distortions help reduce guilt and make it easier to offend. Kohlberg’s theory of moral reasoning also supports this idea, suggesting that many offenders operate at a pre-conventional level, where actions are judged based on consequences rather than moral principles. Hollin et Al. (2002) found that most criminals fall into this category, seeing rule-breaking as acceptable if punishment can be avoided or rewards are gained