Section 4.4: Genetics and Crime – Learning Resources

Section 4.4 Overview

Section 4.4, “Genetics and Crime,” examines the intricate and sometimes contentious relationship between genetics and criminal behavior, highlighting how biological predispositions might influence an individual’s propensity towards criminality. From its early 20th-century roots, influenced by the eugenics movement, this area of study has undergone significant transformation, embracing modern genetic research to explore the nuanced interplay between specific genetic variations, broader genetic predispositions, and environmental factors. This section critically explores how these genetic factors contribute to criminal behavior, moving beyond deterministic interpretations to adopt a more comprehensive approach. By investigating the complex dynamics between genetics and environment, Section 4.4 seeks to deepen our understanding of crime’s biological underpinnings while addressing the ethical implications of genetic research in criminology.

Section Level Student Learning Outcomes

• SLO 1: Analyze the evolution of genetic theories in criminology, distinguishing between early deterministic views and modern integrated approaches.
• SLO 2: Examine the methodologies and findings of twin and adoption studies to understand the genetic components of criminal behavior.
• SLO 3: Evaluate the gene-environment interaction’s role in shaping criminal behavior, emphasizing the complexity of determining criminal predispositions.
• SLO 4: Assess the ethical and legal implications of incorporating genetic research into criminology, particularly regarding individual responsibility and privacy concerns.
• SLO 5: Synthesize current knowledge on genetics and crime to predict future directions in research, highlighting the need for balanced and ethical inquiry.

Modification History

File Created:  02/15/2024

Last Modified:  02/19/2024

[Contents]

This work is licensed under an Open Educational Resource-Quality Master Source (OER-QMS) License.