Brain Abnormality | WJEC Criminology | Unit 2 | A.C. 2.1 | Revision

Summary

This video delves into biological theories of criminality, emphasizing the role of brain abnormalities and neurochemical imbalances in influencing criminal behavior. It explores how brain injuries, diseases like dementia, and neurochemical factors such as low serotonin and high testosterone can lead to aggressive actions. Case studies, including that of Charles Whitman, illustrate the potential impact of brain tumors on rational thought and behavior. Despite advancements in neuroscience offering valuable insights, challenges remain, such as small sample sizes and the comorbidity of mental health issues, complicating our understanding of the causes of criminal behavior.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Brain abnormalities and neurochemical reactions can contribute to criminal behavior.
• 🔍 The prefrontal cortex regulates emotions and behaviors; damage here can affect perception and behavior.
• 🔬 Technologies like PET scans have enabled neuroscientists to study brain activity in criminals.
• 📉 Reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex has been observed in convicted criminals compared to non-criminals.
• 🧬 Diseases like dementia can impair brain functioning and lead to aggressive outbursts.
• ⚠️ Historical research linked encephalitis lethargica (sleeping sickness) to criminal behavior in children.
• 🔫 Charles Whitman, the Texas Tower Sniper, had a tumor in his prefrontal cortex that may have impacted his actions.
• 💊 Neurochemistry, including serotonin levels, influences behavior; low serotonin is linked to aggression.
• 👨‍🔬 Higher testosterone levels have been correlated with increased criminal and aggressive behaviors, particularly in males.
• ⚖️ While brain abnormalities provide insights into criminality, establishing clear cause-and-effect relationships remains challenging due to ethical concerns and comorbidity of symptoms.

Q & A

What are the main biological theories of criminality discussed in the video?

The video discusses biological theories that suggest criminal behavior results from abnormal brain functioning due to illness, injury, or inadequate neurotransmitter levels.

How does the prefrontal cortex influence behavior?

The prefrontal cortex regulates emotions and behaviors, and damage to this area can alter an individual's perception of the world and their subsequent behavior.

What technological advancements aid the study of brain activity in criminals?

PET scans are used to observe brain activity, allowing researchers to see how the brains of convicted criminals function during specific tasks or in response to stimuli.

What findings were revealed about the prefrontal cortex in convicted criminals?

Studies found that convicted criminals often exhibit reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex compared to non-criminals.

What role do diseases like dementia play in influencing criminal behavior?

Dementia impacts normal brain functioning, leading to memory loss and aggressive outbursts, although it is debated whether these outbursts are purely due to the disease.

What is the significance of Charles Whitman's case in relation to brain abnormalities?

Charles Whitman's case highlights the potential influence of brain tumors on behavior; a post-mortem revealed a tumor in his prefrontal cortex, which may have affected his ability for rational thought.

How are neurotransmitters linked to criminal behavior?

Low levels of serotonin are associated with higher aggression levels, while high testosterone levels in males are linked to increased violent crime rates.

What research findings support the connection between serotonin levels and antisocial behavior?

Research by Scurvo and Rain indicated that individuals with lower serotonin levels were more likely to exhibit antisocial behaviors compared to those with normal levels.

What are the limitations of biological theories in explaining criminality?

Limitations include reliance on small sample sizes, ethical constraints in research, and the comorbidity of symptoms with other conditions like depression or anxiety, complicating causal relationships.

Why is it important to evaluate the strengths and limitations of biological theories of criminality?

Evaluating these theories is crucial for understanding the multifaceted nature of criminal behavior, ensuring that biological factors are considered alongside environmental and psychological influences.