PSYC39H3 Lecture Notes - Life History Theory, Frontal Lobe, Temporal Lobe
Document Summary
Theories of crime: biological and evolutionary pseudo-explanations (chapter 2) Franz gall (1758-1828): relationship between the shape & size of person"s head and personality, ability, behaviours. Cesare lombroso (1835-1909): criminals possess distinctive physical features; they are evolutionary throwbacks. Neurochemical approaches: unfortunately, the text does not explore any of these in detail. Genetic and crime twins, adoption, and molecular genetics. Link between genetics and antisocial behaviour: twin and adoption studies: genetic might be somewhat responsible, environment may be responsible, twins: can compare identical with non-identical (share 50% of the same genetics) Does testosterone cause aggression, or does aggression cause increases in testosterone: both are true. Study of premenstrual syndrome and aggression: hormone levels are out of control, these fluctuations lead women to become more aggressive, female aggression manifested differently than in males; express aggression, adrenal glands produce the testosterone in females. Serotonin behavioural inhibition, mood regulation; strong correlation between malfunctioning serotonin and aggression.
