Physiological explanations of criminal behaviour

Physiological theories suggest that certain physical traits or bodily characteristics may predispose individuals to criminal behaviour.

Key theories of physical traits and criminality

• Lombroso's criminal characteristics - Cesare Lombroso, an Italian criminologist, proposed that criminals could be identified by specific physical features.
• Sheldon's body types - William Sheldon developed a theory categorising individuals into three body types:
  • Endomorph
  • Mesomorph
  • Ectomorph

The role of hereditary factors and brain activity in criminal tendencies

Genetic influences on criminal behaviour

• Hereditary factors - Genes passed down from parents may increase the likelihood of criminal behaviour.
• Twin and adoption studies - Research comparing identical twins with fraternal twins has shown that identical twins are more likely to both exhibit criminal behaviour if one does, suggesting a genetic component.

Brain activity and criminal behaviour

• Low activity in the prefrontal cortex - The prefrontal cortex has been linked to criminal behaviour when its activity is reduced. Research by Adrian Raine has demonstrated this connection.

Social explanations for criminal behaviour

Social theories argue that criminal behaviour arises from environmental and societal influences rather than inherent biological traits.

Factors influencing criminal behaviour through social environment

• Upbringing - The way a child is raised can significantly impact their likelihood of engaging in criminal activity.
• Parenting styles - Poor parenting may fail to instil proper values or boundaries, leading to a higher risk of criminal tendencies.
• Poverty - Economic disadvantage often correlates with higher crime rates.

Learning theories and criminal behaviour

Learning theories propose that criminal behaviour is not innate but acquired through observation, reinforcement, and social interactions.

Mechanisms of learning criminal behaviour

• Operant conditioning - This theory suggests that behaviour is shaped by consequences.
• Social learning - Individuals learn by observing others, particularly role models in their environment.
• Sutherland's differential association hypothesis - Edwin Sutherland proposed that criminal behaviour is learned through interactions with others.

Cognitive explanations for criminal tendencies

Cognitive theories focus on how thought processes and mental development influence criminal behaviour.

Cognitive factors in criminal behaviour

• Moral development - Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development suggests that individuals progress through stages of moral reasoning.