Real-world social issue and how biological or genetic factors may influence the issue

Sample Solution

Social Issue: Criminology

Biological and Genetic Factors:

Criminology is the study of crime and criminal behavior. Biological and genetic factors have been shown to play a role in criminology, although the exact nature of this relationship is complex and not fully understood.

What does the biological approach reveal about criminology?

The biological approach to criminology focuses on the role of biological factors in criminal behavior. These factors can include:

• Genetics: Studies have shown that there is a genetic component to criminal behavior. For example, twin studies have shown that identical twins are more likely to both be criminals than fraternal twins.
• Brain structure and function: Studies have shown that there are differences in brain structure and function between criminals and non-criminals. For example, criminals have been shown to have smaller amygdalae, a brain region involved in emotion regulation.
• Neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between neurons. Studies have shown that imbalances in certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, can be associated with criminal behavior.

Full Answer Section

• Hormones: Hormones are chemicals that are produced by the body's endocrine system. Studies have shown that exposure to certain hormones, such as testosterone, can be associated with aggressive behavior.

Is there one biological or genetic factor that appears to have more influence than other factors that negatively impact criminology?

There is no single biological or genetic factor that appears to have more influence than other factors that negatively impact criminology. However, some factors, such as genetics and brain structure, appear to have a stronger influence than others.

For example, a study published in the journal Biological Psychiatry found that a genetic variant known as MAOA-L was associated with an increased risk of violent crime. The MAOA-L gene is involved in the production of the monoamine oxidase A enzyme, which is involved in the breakdown of neurotransmitters. People with the MAOA-L gene have lower levels of monoamine oxidase A, which can lead to imbalances in neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. These imbalances can be associated with aggressive behavior.

Could there be several biological or genetic factors that negatively impact criminology?

Yes, there could be several biological or genetic factors that negatively impact criminology. Criminality is a complex behavior, and it is likely that a combination of factors contributes to its development.

For example, a person with a genetic predisposition to criminal behavior may be more likely to engage in criminal activity if they are also exposed to environmental factors such as poverty, violence, and lack of opportunity.

Supporting Evidence:

• Genetics: A study published in the journal Nature Genetics found that a genetic variant known as CDH13 was associated with an increased risk of antisocial behavior. The CDH13 gene is involved in the development of the brain's frontal lobes, which are involved in impulse control and decision-making.
• Brain structure and function: A study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry found that criminals had smaller volumes of gray matter in the amygdala and the orbitofrontal cortex. The amygdala is involved in emotion regulation, and the orbitofrontal cortex is involved in decision-making.
• Neurotransmitters: A study published in the journal The Lancet found that low levels of serotonin were associated with an increased risk of violent crime. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood regulation and impulse control.
• Hormones: A study published in the journal Hormones and Behavior found that high levels of testosterone were associated with an increased risk of aggressive behavior. Testosterone is a hormone that is involved in the development of male sex characteristics.

Conclusion:

The biological approach to criminology has revealed a number of factors that can contribute to criminal behavior. While there is no single biological or genetic factor that appears to have more influence than other factors, it is likely that a combination of factors contributes to the development of criminal behavior.