Week 2 discussions-Psychology of criminal behavior
This week we turn our focus from the external (social/environmental factors) to the internal (possible biological factors) that might impact a person as it pertains to criminal behavior. Biological theories are some of the most controversial theories related to crime causation. Despite their controversial nature, they have been accepted in some social and previously academic circles. After review of the reading, please respond to the questions below:
Identify and describe in detail the various biological factors that influence criminality. If committing criminal behavior is largely or even partially explained by one’s biological development or biological factors out of a person’s control (e.g., heredity, past history of abuse), what are the implications for our criminal justice system?