Criminology and Determinism Concepts

A perspective in criminology that assumes individuals lack free will in controlling their behavior.

Study and policies aiming to improve the human race through discriminatory control over reproduction.

Study that linked skull size to perceived superiority or inferiority, based on societal beliefs.

Study of human character based on skull bumps.

Study of facial and bodily features to identify developmental problems.

Belief certain behaviors are throwbacks to earlier evolutionary stages.

Physical signs of atavism (according to Lombroso).

The idea that behavior is caused by factors outside free will.

Belief that certain physical features (such as asymmetrical ears) suggest developmental problems.

A technical term from the early 1900s for significantly below-average intelligence.

Linking body type with criminal or delinquent behavior.

A body type associated with a round or obese body build.

A body type associated with an athletic or muscular build.

A body type associated with a thin or slender build.

Personality type associated with an endomorphic (obese) body build.

Personality type associated with a mesomorphic (muscular) body build.

Personality type associated with an ectomorphic (thin) body build.

Genes might influence traits like aggression and impulsivity, increasing the risk of criminal behavior, but not determining it.

Low serotonin or high dopamine levels might be linked to increased aggression or impulsivity.

Problems with the prefrontal cortex, which controls decision-making and impulse control, can lead to difficulty regulating emotions and considering consequences.

A malfunctioning limbic system, associated with emotional processing, might lead to aggressive or impulsive behaviors.

Differences in brain structure, potentially impacting higher-order functions like impulse control, might increase the risk of criminal behavior.

Evolutionary psychology suggests that behaviours like aggression might have adaptive origins in ancestral environments but are now seen as criminal in modern society.

Hormonal imbalances can affect aggressive behavior and impulsivity, potentially increasing the risk for criminal acts.

Both are personality disorders involving antisocial behavior, lack of empathy, and disregard for others' rights. Psychopathy is often linked to biological factors, while sociopathy is more tied to environmental influences.

Difficulty understanding or sharing the feelings of others. Psychopaths and sociopaths often feel little guilt or remorse for harming others.

Using charm and deceit to exploit others for personal gain. Common in both psychopathy and sociopathy.

Possible biological factors, including brain structure differences (e.g., amygdala or prefrontal cortex), and potential neurochemical imbalances. Early trauma can also play a role.

Primarily linked to environmental factors, such as childhood experiences like neglect or abuse. Adverse childhood events significantly shape development.

A broader category encompassing psychopathy and sociopathy, along with other related personality traits characterized by antisocial behavior.

Acting on immediate desires without considering consequences. A common feature of both psychopathy and sociopathy.

A higher probability of criminal activity, including violent crimes, is correlated with both psychopathy and sociopathy.

An inflated sense of importance and superiority, often accompanied by a disregard for rules. Observed in both psychopathy and sociopathy.

Relationships characterized by manipulation and exploitation, causing distress to those involved.

Difficult to establish due to a lack of empathy and trustworthiness in the individual.

High-conflict relationships, including divorce and family conflicts due to manipulative tendencies and irresponsibility.

Traditional therapy often isn't very effective in treating psychopathy and sociopathy.

Treatment methods mostly concentrate on controlling harmful or impulsive behaviors.

A therapy type focusing on thought patterns to improve coping mechanisms.

Treatment often includes understanding the impact of actions on others.

Medication like antipsychotics/antidepressants may assist with symptom management, but isn't the primary treatment.

Successful treatment frequently requires continued support and tracking.

Treatment often involves a team of professionals (therapists, psychiatrists, etc.) for better care.

Patients with psychopathic traits often lack insight or remorse, making consistent treatment challenging.

Understanding how psychological traits influence criminal behavior, including IQ assessments and risk prediction.

Psychological assessments influence criminal justice policies, including risk assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation.

A discussion about the roles of genetics and environment in criminal behavior.

These assessments evaluate individual differences and risk factors related to criminal behavior.