Connection between genetics, brain functioning, neurology, and the chemistry of crime

Abstract EN

A current and generally prevalent view among many social scientists is that the last three decades of research in human behavior have witnessed a notable change in perspective.

This change is represented by a move from a culturally centered social learning model towards a more balanced perspective in which both genetic and environmental factors are considered to explain the wide variations observed in human behavior, including antisocial and criminal behavior.

Based on this prevalent view, this study aimed to investigate and elucidate the genetic and neurobiological underpinnings of criminal and antisocial behavior through a systematic review of studies relevant to biochemical, brain imaging, and genetics, with the objective of pointing out the dysfunctional interactions between biochemical, brain imaging, and genetic systems in the prefrontal cortex that may be an important mechanism underlying the link between impulsive aggression and its comorbid disorders that makes a person commit a crime.

Results of this paper’s systematic review revealed that a steadfast movement is being achieved towards a more balanced perspective in which both genetic and environmental factors are thoroughly considered to explain behavior, including criminal and antisocial behaviors.

Research findings and researcher’s assertions reviewed in this paper, all give credence to the assumptions that environmental factors alone cannot fully explain human behavior; particularly criminal behavior.

Those studies do support the idea that a rather significant connection does exist between criminal behavior and genetics, brain functioning, neurology, and biochemistry.

The study was concluded with a recommendation aimed at thelaw enforcement agencies, the court systems, and the professionals concerned with criminal behavior and criminal justice.