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Biological Theories Of Criminal Behavior

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Researchers claim that there are three factors: biological, sociocultural and cognitive that equally contribute to one’s criminal behavior. Biological theories in criminology state that individuals behave differently because they are somehow structurally different. These theories focus on behavioral genetics and brain localization, and genetic defects (which are not inherited). Theorists correlate criminal behavior to personality conflicts, unsolved situations, and specific environments from childhood which can lead to criminal behavior. Biological level of analysis was proven to be one of the factors contributing to criminality based on genetics. Behavior is affected by biological aspects of individuals such as neurotransmitters, hormones, and genetics. Hutchings & Mednick carried out a study on adopted kids and …show more content…

Psychologists claim that criminal behavior is a result of a variety types of theories based on cognitive factors. The theory is based on an assumption that criminals commit crimes seeking benefit or fulfillment. This is supported by a study of Bennett and Wright in 1984 who interviewed burglars found that the criminals usually commit crimes because of financial reward and ease of entry. This proved certain ways of using cognitive processes can lead to criminal behavior. According to some psychologists, criminal behavior is also affected by sociocultural factors. Criminal behavior can be influenced by social and cultural expectations people have and the political and economic environments. Poverty is one of the main sociocultural factors affecting criminal behavior. Messner (1988) claimed that structural poverty (such as single parent families, low levels of education, high and low social mobility, etc.…) can also influence criminal behavior. There was a higher correlation between structural poverty and criminal behavior than between low income and criminal

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