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Biological Explanations of Offending
Psychology · Year 13 · Forensic Psychology · 4.º Período

Biological Explanations of Offending

This topic investigates historical and modern biological theories of crime, including atavistic form, genetics, and neural explanations. Students will debate the ethical implications of biological determinism in the legal system.

National Curriculum Attainment TargetsAQA A-level Psychology 7182 - 4.3.8.2AQA A-level Psychology 7182 - 4.3.8

About This Topic

This topic investigates historical and modern biological theories of crime, including atavistic form, genetics, and neural explanations. Students will debate the ethical implications of biological determinism in the legal system.

Key Questions

  1. What was Lombroso's atavistic form theory and why is it criticised?
  2. How do twin and adoption studies support a genetic explanation for crime?
  3. What role do mirror neurons and the amygdala play in psychopathy?