Posted: February 9th, 2023

Discuss the major principles of the biosocial theories of criminal

Discuss the major principles of the biosocial theories of criminal causation
Discuss the major principles of the biosocial theories of criminal causation. Then explain the Human Genome Project (HGP). Finally, discuss criticisms that have been waged against the biosocial theories of criminal causation

T05 Criminal Behavior

Directions: Be sure to make an electronic copy of your answer before submitting it to Ashworth College for grading. Unless otherwise stated, answer in complete sentences, and be sure to use correct English spelling and grammar. Sources must be cited in APA format. Your response should be four (4) pages in length; refer to the “Assignment Format” page for specific format requirements.

Discuss the major principles of the biosocial theories of criminal causation. Then explain the Human Genome Project (HGP). Finally, discuss criticisms that have been waged against the biosocial theories of criminal causation.

Grading Rubric

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25 points 20 points 15 points 8 points
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The biosocial theories of criminal causation are an interdisciplinary approach to understanding crime that considers both biological and social factors as potential causes. The major principles of these theories include:

Nature vs Nurture: The biosocial theories of criminal causation recognize that both biological and environmental factors play a role in shaping behavior and criminal tendencies.

Genetic Influence: The theories suggest that genetics may play a role in criminal behavior by influencing personality traits, neurotransmitter levels, and brain structure and function.

Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as poverty, socialization, and access to resources are also considered to contribute to criminal behavior.

Interaction between Biology and Environment: The biosocial theories emphasize the interaction between biology and environment in shaping criminal behavior.

The Human Genome Project (HGP) was a collaborative international scientific research effort that aimed to identify and map all the genes in the human genome. The HGP was initiated in 1990 and was completed in 2003, with the goal of increasing our understanding of human biology and improving medical diagnosis and treatment.

Critics of the biosocial theories of criminal causation argue that these theories can perpetuate stereotypes and discrimination. Some argue that the theories can be used to justify racial or socioeconomic disparities in the criminal justice system. Additionally, some critics argue that the focus on biology and genetics in criminal causation can distract from broader societal issues, such as poverty, inequality, and systemic oppression, that contribute to criminal behavior.

Another criticism is that the evidence for the role of biology in criminal behavior is limited and inconclusive. Some scientists argue that the current research methods used to study the biology of criminal behavior are not adequate and that more robust and rigorous studies are needed.

The biosocial theories of criminal causation offer a complex and nuanced view of crime that recognizes the interplay between biological and environmental factors. However, these theories also face criticism for perpetuating stereotypes and ignoring broader societal issues that contribute to criminal behavior.