•

Updated Mar 23, 2026

•

1 page

Why Do People Break Rules? Biological and Nature vs Nurture Theories Explained

Theodora Li

@theodorali

The biological approach to explaining criminal behavior, focusing on Lombroso's... Show more

Biological Explanations: A Historical Approach

This page explores the biological theory of crime, focusing on Cesare Lombroso's pioneering work in the late 19th century. Lombroso's theory of atavism is a cornerstone of biological positivism in criminology.

Lombroso's Theory of Atavism

Lombroso (1876) proposed that criminals were 'genetic throwbacks' who lacked evolutionary development, making it impossible for them to adjust to civilized society. This theory suggests that biological determinants of criminal behavior are rooted in genes, leading to an innate tendency towards offending.

Definition: Atavistic Form - The idea that offenders have particular physiological 'markers' linked to specific types of offenses.

Offender Types and Characteristics

Lombroso identified several types of criminals based on physical characteristics:

Murderers: bloodshot eyes, curly hair, long ears
Sexual deviants: glinting eyes, swollen fleshy lips, projecting ears
Fraudsters: thin and 'reedy' lips

Example: General criminal characteristics included cranial features like narrow sloping brows, strong prominent jaws, and facial asymmetry, as well as other markers such as dark skin, extra digits, and insensitivity to pain.

Lombroso's Research and Legacy

Lombroso examined the skulls of 383 dead and 3,839 living convicts, concluding that 40% of criminal acts were committed by people with atavistic characteristics. His work is considered foundational in modern criminology.

Highlight: Lombroso is often referred to as the 'father of modern criminology' for shifting crime research towards a more scientific approach.

Criticisms and Counterpoints

Despite his influence, Lombroso's theory has faced significant criticism:

Racial bias: DeLisi (2012) noted racist undertones in Lombroso's theory.
Lack of evidence: Goring (1913) found no evidence supporting unusual cranial characteristics in offenders.
Poor methodology: Lombroso failed to control for important variables and use proper control groups.

Quote: "Lombroso's research does not meet modern scientific standards." - This highlights the flaws in his methodology.

Nature vs. Nurture Debate

The nature versus nurture debate in criminology remains relevant. While Lombroso's theory emphasizes biological causes (nature theory in criminology), modern studies recognize the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental factors.

Vocabulary: Nature vs. Nurture - The ongoing debate in criminology about whether criminal behavior is primarily influenced by genetic factors (nature) or environmental factors (nurture).

This historical approach to biological causes of crime provides a foundation for understanding how the field has evolved, leading to more nuanced modern studies on the interplay between biology and environment in criminal behavior.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Most popular content in Psychology

Comprehensive Research Methods

Explore essential research methods in psychology, including experimental designs, types of experiments, observations, interviews, and ethical considerations. This summary covers key concepts such as independent and dependent variables, validity, reliability, and statistical significance, tailored for A Level AQA Psychology students.

Psychology

Social Influence Overview

Explore key concepts in social influence, including conformity, obedience, and minority influence. This comprehensive summary covers essential studies such as Milgram's experiment, Asch's conformity tests, and the Stanford prison experiment, providing insights into the psychological mechanisms behind social behavior. Ideal for A-Level revision.

Psychology

AQA A Level Sociology Research Methods

Includes all research methods

Psychology

AQA Psychology: Memory Insights

Explore key concepts in the AQA Psychology memory topic, including the Multi Store Model, types of memory, eyewitness testimony, and the Working Memory Model. This summary covers essential theories, studies, and evaluations, providing a comprehensive overview for effective exam preparation.

Psychology

Theories of Romantic Relationships

Explore key theories and concepts in romantic relationships, including Social Exchange Theory, Equity Theory, and Duck's Phase Model. Understand factors affecting attraction such as self-disclosure, physical attractiveness, and the dynamics of virtual and parasocial relationships. This comprehensive summary is essential for AQA A Level Psychology students.

Psychology

Paper 2 - Approaches in Psychology ღ

ღ AQA A Level Psychology notes. ღ Covers AO1 + AO3 of: Origins of Psychology, Behaviourist Approach, Social Learning Theory, Cognitive Approach, Biological Approach, Humanistic Approach and Psychodynamic Approach ღ Any Qs, comment!! <3

Psychology

Attachment Theory Overview

Explore key concepts of attachment theory, including Bowlby's Theory, the Strange Situation, and the role of fathers in attachment. This comprehensive summary covers maternal deprivation, secure and insecure attachments, and insights from animal studies. Ideal for AQA A-Level Psychology students seeking to understand childhood attachment dynamics.

Psychology

A Level AQA Biopsychology Content Mindmap

Biopsychology Content Mind Maps, DOES NOT CONTAIN RESEARCH OR EVALUATION

Psychology

Biopsychology Key Concepts

Explore essential biopsychology concepts including circadian rhythms, brain structure, and neurobiology. This comprehensive summary covers the nervous system, hormonal coordination, and the impact of brain plasticity on behavior. Ideal for AQA A Level Psychology revision.

Psychology

Most popular content

An Inspector Calls: Character Insights

Explore in-depth analysis and key quotes for characters in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This resource covers Gerald Croft, Inspector Goole, Sheila Birling, Mrs. Birling, Eric Birling, and Eva Smith, focusing on themes of class, gender roles, and social responsibility. Ideal for students aiming for Grade 8 and above.

English Literature

Sociology of Education Overview

Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.

Sociology

Comprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview

Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.

Sociology

Sociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision

Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.

Sociology

WJEC Unit 4 Criminology

Criminology unit 4 detailed revision note

Criminology

aqa higher tier combined science - biology b1 : cell biology, paper 1

b1: cell biology - paper 1

Biology

Criminology: Crime & Punishment Overview

Comprehensive mindmaps covering key concepts in the Crime and Punishment topic for WJEC Criminology Unit 4. This resource includes detailed insights into the Criminal Justice System, crime prevention strategies, sentencing models, and the roles of various agencies. Ideal for A-Level revision, ensuring you grasp essential theories and legislative processes to excel in your exams.

Criminology

Macbeth: Guilt and Ambition

Explore the complex themes of guilt and ambition in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'. This analysis covers key characters, including Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, their moral dilemmas, and the tragic consequences of their ambition. Ideal for students studying character motivations, thematic elements, and the psychological impact of power. Includes insights on the natural order, manipulation, and the descent into madness.

English Literature

AQA Biology: Key Concepts

Explore essential AQA Biology topics including Photosynthesis, Respiration, Homeostasis, Genetics, and Ecology. This comprehensive knowledge organizer covers key concepts such as energy transfer, hormonal control, and genetic variation, providing a solid foundation for your studies. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological processes.

Biology

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.6/5

App Store

4.7/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

Stefan S

iOS user

Samantha Klich

Android user

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Basil

Android user

David K

iOS user

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

Rohan U

Android user

Xander S

iOS user

Elisha

iOS user

Paul T

iOS user

Psychology

•

246

•

Updated Mar 23, 2026

•

1 page

Why Do People Break Rules? Biological and Nature vs Nurture Theories Explained

Theodora Li

@theodorali

The biological approach to explaining criminal behavior, focusing on Lombroso's theory of atavism and its historical significance in criminology. Lombroso proposed that criminals were genetic throwbacks with specific physical characteristics, laying the groundwork for modern criminology despite significant flaws in... Show more

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

Biological Explanations: A Historical Approach