Sociology of Crime
and Delinquency
Folajumi Sefiu Jr
Biological Theories of Crime
Introduction
Biological theories of crime examine the connection between an
individual’s physical or genetic makeup and their likelihood of
engaging in criminal behavior.
Unlike sociological theories that focus on environmental and
social influences, biological perspectives argue that certain
inherited traits or physiological conditions can predispose
individuals to commit crimes.
These theories have evolved over time, from focusing on physical
attributes to exploring genetic factors and brain functions.
William Sheldon’s Body Type
Theory
In the 1940s, William Sheldon developed a theory linking body types
(somatotypes) to personality traits and criminal tendencies. He
categorized people into three body types:
1. Endomorphs: Round and soft, associated with sociability and
comfort-seeking behavior.
2. Mesomorphs: Muscular and athletic, believed to be more aggressive
and prone to criminal behavior.
3. Ectomorphs: Thin and fragile, often introverted and restrained.
Sheldon argued that mesomorphs were more likely to engage in
crime due to their physical strength and aggressive nature. For
example, studies found that prison populations had a higher
percentage of mesomorphic individuals.
Twin Studies and Crime
Twin studies have been pivotal in understanding the genetic basis of
criminal behavior.
These studies compare criminal tendencies in identical (monozygotic) and
fraternal (dizygotic) twins.
Identical twins share 100% of their genetic material, while fraternal twins
share 50%, similar to regular siblings.
Research indicates that identical twins are more likely to exhibit similar
criminal behavior than fraternal twins, suggesting a genetic component.
For instance, studies by Johannes Lange in the 1920s showed higher
concordance rates for criminality among identical twins compared to
fraternal twins.
However, environmental influences cannot be ignored, as identical twins
often share similar upbringings, making it difficult to separate nature from
nurture.
Heredity and Crime
Heredity theories argue that criminal tendencies can be passed down
from one generation to another.
Early studies, such as the Jukes and Kallikak family studies, sought to
establish a link between heredity and crime by tracing criminal behaviors
across family lines.
Findings suggested that families with a history of criminal behavior were
more likely to produce individuals with similar tendencies.
Modern research has shifted focus to specific genes that may influence
behavior. For example, the "MAOA gene," sometimes called the "warrior
gene," has been linked to aggressive behavior.
However, these genetic predispositions are influenced by environmental
factors. For instance, an individual with the MAOA gene may not exhibit
criminal behavior unless exposed to a stressful or abusive environment.
This highlights the complex interaction between biology and environment.
Female Criminality and Biological Perspectives
Biological theories have also been applied to understand female
criminality. Early criminologists, like Cesare Lombroso, argued that
female criminals were biologically distinct, describing them as
"atavistic" and less evolved.
Lombroso believed that female criminals had masculine features and
lower moral development, which predisposed them to crime.
Modern studies focus on hormonal influences, such as the role of
testosterone and estrogen. For instance, hormonal fluctuations during
menstruation or pregnancy have been linked to mood swings and
impulsive behavior, which might contribute to certain criminal acts.
Additionally, evolutionary perspectives suggest that survival instincts,
such as protecting offspring, might explain some aggressive behaviors
among females.