Genetics and Criminal Behavior - Evidence Through the End of the 1970s

• NCJ Number: 83226
• Journal: Criminology Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Dated: (May 1982) Pages: 43-66
• Author(s): L Ellis
• Date Published: 1982
• Length: 24 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: A version of this article was presented at the 1980 Convention of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, March 12-14, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Annotation

Research reported up through and including the 1970s directly bearing upon the relationship between genetics and criminality is reviewed.

Abstract

Studies using four classes of research designs are considered: general pedigree (or family) studies, twin studies, karyotype studies, and adoption studies. Only the latter three offer solid evidence at least consistent with a partial genetic etiological hypothesis, and of these, only on type of karyotype study and the adoption studies appear to be on the verge of definitely settling the matter. Among the fairly definitive types of studies, most of the evidence is extremely supportive of the proposition that human variation in tendencies to commit criminal behavior is significantly affected by some genetic factors. (Publisher abstract)