Biochemical explanations

• Biochemical substances and processes

  Possible causes of criminal behaviour, because of their effect on brain chemistry and mental processes
• Serotonin


  A chemical that controls mood, low levels are linked with higher aggression
• Scerbo and Raine (1993) conducted a meta-analysis on 29 other studies into antisocial adults and children, finding low levels of serotonin in all of them
• Control of serotonin levels

  • Possible through diet, some foods can help raise serotonin levels (dark chocolate, cheese, nuts, salmon, turkey, chicken)
• Substances linked to criminal behaviour

  • Lead
  • Synthetic food colourings (e.g. tartrazine)
  • Vitamin B deficits
  • Over or underproduction of sex hormones
  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels)
• Male hormone testosterone


  Has been linked with murder and rape
• Puberty in men


  Due to this, men have the highest crime rates amongst the early 20s
• Low blood sugar levels

  Linked to alcohol abuse and more aggressive reactions
• Substances linked to increased aggression

  • Alcohol
  • Cocaine
  • Crack
• Alcohol intake


  Increases hypoglycemia, aggression and violence
• Cannabis


  Has been shown to reduce aggression