SOC212H1 Chapter Notes - Chapter 6: Family Therapy, Social Rejection, Twin Study
Document Summary
Somatype (william sheldon) idea which held that criminals manifest distinct physiques susceptible to particular types of delinquent behaviour. Modern biological trait theorists believe that physical, environmental, and social conditions work together to produce human behaviour. Biological trait theory has several principles: different genetic makeups mean that not all humans are born with equal potential to learn and achieve (equipotentiality) Importance of brain functioning, mental process, learning; some biosocial theorists believe that learning is influenced by instincts (which are inherited and non-learned) Major premise is that crime is function of diet, vitamins, hormonal imbalance, or food allergies. Research focuses: diet, hormones, enzymes, environmental contaminants, lead intake. Major premise: delinquents often suffer brain impairment, which is related to antisocial behaviour. Strengths: explains irrational violence/how environment interacts with personal traits. Research focuses: attention deficit disorder, adhd, learning disabilities, brain injuries, brain chemistry. Some criminologists believe that abnormalities acquired as early as fetal state may control behaviour throughout life.
