Criminological Theories in Crime - Essay Example

The criticism of the theory is mainly based on the claim that there is nothing like a criminal gene. However, certain evidences have been put forward in recent times to show that genetics are a source of criminal behavior. This paper will explore the merits of the idea that genetics are a source of criminal behavior. It will also examine the strengths and weaknesses of the evidences surrounding genetics and crime. The essay will then look at whether the police departments should consider or dismiss the findings.

Finally, the paper will explore the dangers of believing in the existence of a criminal gene, as well as the consequences the existence of the gene may have in the field of criminal justice system. Namazi (2010) notes that there is a divided opinion regarding the role of genes in criminal behaviors. However, some research conducted in the past has suggested that genes contribute largely to criminal behaviors among individuals. What these studies suggests is that, a child whose farther happens to have been a criminal, is most likely to become a criminal in the future due to genetic influence.

Despite having been refuted by some theories that maintain that there is no criminal gene, the twin and adoption theories provide a good connection between genetics and criminal behaviors (Cassel and Bernstein, 2007). . For example, a study conducted by Christiansen in Demark, found out that genetics plays a vital role in influencing the criminality (Cassel and Bernstein, 2007). In conducting the study, Christiansen surveyed a population of 3,586 twin pairs. From the study, Christiansen found 52% of the twins concordant for criminality for male-male identical twin pairs and 22% concordant for male-male fraternal twin pairs (Cassel and Bernstein, 2007).

This evidence suggested that identical twins inherit some biological characteristics, which increases their risk of being registered for criminal behaviors. A similar study conducted in the United States and Sweden showed a higher concordance for criminality amongst MZ than DZ twins did (van Dusen and Mednick, 1983). This studies support the claims that genetics influence criminal behaviors amongst individuals in society. Several adoption studies conducted in 1970s and 1980s have also provided convincing evidence that genetics influence criminal behaviors.

According to adoption studies, having a parent who have been imprisoned at one time increases an individual’s risk of getting a criminal conviction when the person grows up regardless of whether the person is brought up by pro-social, law-abiding, and genetically unrelated relatives. The adoption studies established that genetic effects on criminality are important for both sexes. However, the genetic risk was found to be higher for female than male offenders were (Mednick, Gabrielli and Hutchings, 1984).

Regarding an adoptive study conducted in the U.S., Mednick, Gabrielli, and Hutchings (1984) noted an increased rate of criminality in 42 Iowan adoptees with criminal biological mothers. Another study conducted by Mednick, Gabrielli and