•

19 Dec 2025

•

1 page

Lombroso and Sheldon: Crime Theories for Kids

Louise

@louise_studies

The biological theories of crimefocus on physiological and genetic... Show more

# AC 2.1: Describe Physiological Theories

Physiological Assumption
Criminality is caused by the
physical traits of an
individual

Genetic A

Physiological Theories of Crime

Lombroso's Theory of Criminal Anthropology

Cesare Lombroso, considered one of the pioneers in the scientific study of criminality, developed the Lombroso theory which proposed that criminals could be identified by specific physical features. This theory was based on several assumptions:

Physiological Assumption: Physical traits cause criminality
Genetic Assumption: Criminality is inherited
Brain Injury Assumption: Abnormalities in the brain lead to criminal behavior
Biochemical Assumption: Hormones and chemicals influence criminal tendencies

Vocabulary: Atavistic - Lombroso used this term to describe criminals as less evolved individuals.

Lombroso identified features such as large jaws, high cheekbones, and flat noses as indicators of criminal tendencies. He even linked specific features to types of crimes, such as a beaked nose to murderers.

Example: According to the Lombroso theory, a person with a beaked nose might be more likely to commit murder.

Strengths of Lombroso's Theory:

Pioneered the scientific study of crime
Led to increased focus on examining criminal records
Shifted focus towards reforming prisoners rather than purely punishing them

Weaknesses of Lombroso's Theory:

Lacked a control group for comparison with the general population
Relied solely on his own research without secondary sources
Later research found no link between facial features and criminality

Highlight: The Lombroso theory strengths and weaknesses demonstrate both its historical importance and its scientific limitations.

Sheldon's Somatotype Theory

William Sheldon developed a theory linking body types (somatotypes) to personality traits and criminal behavior. He identified three main body types:

Ectomorph: Thin, lean, low muscle and body fat
Mesomorph: Muscular, strong limbs, broad shoulders
Endomorph: Round, lack of muscle, wide hips

Definition: Somatotypes are categories of human body types proposed by William Sheldon.

Sheldon's research involved rating photographs of college students and juvenile offenders on a scale of 1 to 7 for how "mesomorphic" they appeared. He concluded that mesomorphs were most likely to commit crimes, while ectomorphs were least likely.

Example: According to Sheldon's somatotypes theory, a muscular person (mesomorph) might be more prone to criminal behavior than a thin person (ectomorph).

Strengths of Sheldon's Theory:

Used a large sample size and included a control group
Some later studies found links between physique and crime
Glueck (1956) found a higher percentage of mesomorphs among delinquents compared to non-delinquents

Weaknesses of Sheldon's Theory:

Body types change throughout a person's life
Cannot explain criminal behavior in endomorphs and ectomorphs
Cultural factors influencing body types were not considered

Highlight: The strengths and weaknesses of Sheldon's theory reveal both its contributions to criminology and its limitations in explaining the complex nature of criminal behavior.

Both the Lombroso theory and Sheldon's somatotypes theory are important in the history of biological theories of crime. While largely discredited today, they paved the way for more sophisticated research into the biological factors that may influence 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 Criminology

Criminal Justice Evidence Rules

Explore the essential rules governing the use of evidence in criminal cases, including reliability, admissibility, and relevance. This summary covers key concepts such as the roles of personnel in investigations, the impact of witness testimonies, and the implications of plea bargaining. Ideal for Year 13 criminology students preparing for assessments.

Criminology

Criminology Case Studies Overview

Explore key case studies in criminology, focusing on criminal behavior, trial processes, and the impact of media and public perception on justice outcomes. This resource covers significant cases, the role of the Crown Prosecution Service, and the principles of just verdicts, providing essential insights for WJEC Criminology assessments.

Criminology

Evaluating Evidence Validity

Explore the critical aspects of evidence validity in criminology, focusing on trial transcripts, media influence, and expert testimonies. This summary covers key concepts such as bias, accuracy, and the impact of circumstances on judicial outcomes. Ideal for students studying Unit 3 AC3.1 in criminology.

Criminology

Criminology Unit 3 - AC:2.4 Example

These are my Criminology Unit 3 - AC:2.4 notes, please utilise these as a guidance for your exam. Ensure you do not use this as your own work as you will be disqualified for plagiarism. Good luck studying! .

Criminology

Validity in Criminology Evidence

Explore the critical aspects of evidence validity in criminology, including media influence, court cases, and the role of expert witnesses. This presentation covers essential sources of information, such as trial transcripts and law reports, and examines how biases can affect judicial outcomes. Perfect for students preparing for assessments in criminology and criminal justice.

Criminology

Justice and Sentencing Analysis

Explore the complexities of justice and sentencing in the criminal justice system. This study note covers key concepts such as jury equity, nullification, just and unjust verdicts, and the implications of unduly lenient or harsh sentences. Analyze case studies including the Birmingham Six and the impact of public opinion on sentencing. Ideal for students studying crime and sentencing principles, this resource aids in drawing informed conclusions about verdict safety and justice. Type: Summary.

Criminology

Criminology Unit 3 - AC:3.2 Example

These are my Criminology Unit 3 - AC:3.2 notes, please utilise these as a guidance for your exam. Ensure you do not use this as your own work as you will be disqualified for plagiarism. Good luck studying! .

Criminology

Criminology Unit 3 - AC:3.1 Example

These are my Criminology Unit 3 - AC:3.1 notes, please utilise these as a guidance for your exam. Ensure you do not use this as your own work as you will be disqualified for plagiarism. Good luck studying! .

Criminology

Criminology unit 3 AC 1.2

Notes

Criminology

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

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

b1: cell biology - paper 1

Biology

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

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 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

Criminal Justice Evidence Rules

Criminology

Biology Paper 1 Overview

Comprehensive study notes covering key concepts in cellular biology, human digestion, respiration, photosynthesis, and the circulatory system. This resource includes detailed explanations of cell structures, enzyme functions, nutrient absorption, and the impact of environmental factors on biological processes. Ideal for students preparing for Biology Paper 1 exams.

Biology

Language Paper 1 Strategies

Master the AQA English Language Paper 1 with this comprehensive guide. Explore key strategies for language and structural analysis, critical evaluation, and creative writing. Learn how to effectively analyze texts, utilize literary techniques, and enhance your writing skills to excel in your exams.

English Language

Power & Conflict Poetry Analysis

Explore in-depth analyses of key poems for GCSE English Literature, including Ozymandias, Storm on the Island, London, My Last Duchess, and more. This resource covers themes, structure, and key quotes to enhance your understanding of war and conflict in poetry. Ideal for exam preparation and comparative studies.

English Literature

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

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

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 THE SCHOOLGPT. 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

Criminology

•

1,071

•

19 Dec 2025

•

1 page

Lombroso and Sheldon: Crime Theories for Kids

Louise

@louise_studies

The biological theories of crimefocus on physiological and genetic factors that may influence criminal behavior. This summary covers two key theories: Lombroso's theory of criminal anthropology and Sheldon's somatotype theory. Both theories attempt to link physical characteristics with criminal... Show more

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Physiological Theories of Crime