
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.
About This Topic
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.
Key Questions
- Can genetics predispose an individual to criminal behaviour?
- How do physiological theories explain aggression?
- What are the limitations of biological explanations of crime?
More in Criminological Theories
The Social Construction of Crime
Exploring the distinction between crime and deviance, and how definitions of criminality change across different cultures and historical periods. Students will debate the fluid nature of the law.
2 methodologies
Psychological Explanations of Criminality
Examining individualistic theories of crime, including psychodynamic approaches, social learning theory, and personality traits. Students will apply these theories to real-world criminal profiles.
2 methodologies
Sociological Perspectives on Crime
Analysing how social structures, inequalities, and labelling contribute to crime rates. Students will compare Marxist, functionalist, and interactionist views on the criminal justice system.
2 methodologies