Criminology · Year 12 · Criminological Theories · 2.º Período

Biological and Physiological Theories

An overview of early and modern biological explanations for criminal behaviour, including genetics and brain abnormalities. Students will evaluate the strengths and limitations of these deterministic views.

TL;DR:Biological and Physiological Theories of criminality explore the idea that some individuals are 'born criminals' or have physical predispositions toward offending. This topic covers historical theories like Lombroso's 'atavistic form' and Sheldon's somatotypes, as well as modern research into genetics (the XYY syndrome), brain structure, and neurochemistry. Students must evaluate these deterministic views against social and environmental factors, meeting WJEC AC2.1 and AC3.1 standards.

• National Curriculum Attainment Targets
• WJEC AC2.1: Describe biological theories of criminality
• WJEC AC3.1: Evaluate biological theories of criminality

About This Topic

Biological and Physiological Theories of criminality explore the idea that some individuals are 'born criminals' or have physical predispositions toward offending. This topic covers historical theories like Lombroso's 'atavistic form' and Sheldon's somatotypes, as well as modern research into genetics (the XYY syndrome), brain structure, and neurochemistry. Students must evaluate these deterministic views against social and environmental factors, meeting WJEC AC2.1 and AC3.1 standards.

This topic is often fascinating for students as it connects criminology with biology and psychology. However, it requires a critical approach to avoid oversimplification. Students need to understand the ethical implications of biological determinism and the history of how these theories have been used to justify discrimination. This topic comes alive when students can physically model the patterns of inheritance or use case studies to debate the 'nature vs. nurture' argument in a structured environment.

Key Questions

1. Can genetics predispose an individual to criminal behaviour?
2. How do physiological theories explain aggression?
3. What are the limitations of biological explanations of crime?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

There is a single 'crime gene' that makes people commit offences.

What to Teach Instead

Criminality is a complex behaviour, and while genetics may influence traits like impulsivity, there is no single gene for crime. Using a 'nature vs. nurture' spectrum activity helps students see that genes interact with the environment.

Common Misconception

Biological theories are 'scientific' and therefore more accurate than sociological ones.

What to Teach Instead

Early biological theories were often based on flawed data and prejudice. Even modern studies show correlation, not necessarily causation. A gallery walk focusing on criticisms helps students maintain a critical perspective on 'scientific' claims.

Active Learning Ideas

Gallery Walk

The History of Biological Theory

Display posters of Lombroso, Sheldon, and modern genetic studies. Students move around with an evaluation sheet, noting one strength and one major criticism for each theory based on their pre-reading.

30 min·Whole Class

Formal Debate

The Warrior Gene

Provide students with a summary of the 'MAOA gene' research. Half the class argues that genetic predispositions should be a mitigating factor in sentencing, while the other half argues that individuals must remain responsible for their actions.

45 min·Whole Class

Inquiry Circle

Brain Scan Analysis

In small groups, students look at simplified diagrams of a 'normal' brain vs. an 'offender' brain (focusing on the prefrontal cortex). They must explain how these physical differences might lead to specific criminal behaviours like impulsivity.

25 min·Small Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Cesare Lombroso believe about criminals?

Lombroso, the 'father of modern criminology,' believed that criminals were 'atavistic', biological throwbacks to an earlier stage of human evolution. He claimed they could be identified by physical features like large jaws or high cheekbones. While his methods were flawed, he was the first to apply scientific observation to the study of crime.

How does the XYY syndrome relate to crime?

The XYY syndrome is a rare genetic condition where a male has an extra Y chromosome. Early research suggested these men were more aggressive and prone to crime, but later studies showed no significant link to violent behaviour. It serves as a great case study for students to evaluate the reliability of biological research.

Can brain injuries lead to criminal behaviour?

Damage to the prefrontal cortex, which controls impulses and decision-making, has been linked to increased aggression and anti-social behaviour in some individuals. Famous cases like Phineas Gage are often used to illustrate how physical changes to the brain can alter personality and conduct.

How can active learning help students understand biological theories?

Active learning strategies like the 'Warrior Gene' debate force students to apply biological concepts to real-world legal dilemmas. Instead of just memorising facts, they must weigh the evidence and consider the ethical consequences of biological explanations. This deepens their evaluative skills, which are essential for achieving high marks in the WJEC assessments.