Neural Explanations and Brain Activity

This section examines how neural explanations for antisocial personality disorder manifest in criminal behavior through brain activity patterns and emotional responses.

Definition: Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by reduced emotional responses and lack of empathy, common traits among offenders.

Highlight: Studies show that what part of the brain has reduced activity in antisocial disorder patients is primarily the prefrontal cortex, which regulates emotional behavior.

The relationship between brain function and criminal behavior is supported by research showing that individuals with antisocial personality disorder can experience empathy when prompted, suggesting potential for intervention.

Example: Biological causes of crime examples include reduced prefrontal cortex activity and altered mirror neuron function, which affects empathy and emotional regulation.

Quote: "The justice system is based on the idea that we all have responsibility for our actions," highlighting the tension between biological determinism and personal accountability.

Genetic Explanations and Twin Studies

This section explores how genetic explanations of offending behaviour manifest through inherited traits and scientific studies. The Christiansen (1977 twin study) provides compelling evidence through concordance rates, showing 35% for identical twin males versus 13% for non-identical twins.

Definition: The genetic explanation definition refers to the inheritance of specific genes that may predispose individuals to criminal behavior.

Example: Crowe's 1972 adoption study revealed that children with biological mothers having criminal records showed a 50% risk of developing one by age 18, compared to 5% for those without such family history.

Highlight: Two specific candidate genes have been identified: the MAOA gene affecting serotonin regulation and aggressive behavior, and the CDH13 gene linked to substance abuse and ADHD.

The diathesis-stress model explains how genetic predisposition interacts with environmental triggers to influence criminal behavior. This model acknowledges both nature and nurture's roles in developing criminal tendencies.

Vocabulary: Concordance rates refer to the probability that both twins will exhibit the same behavioral trait.