Description
Review the fundamental aspects surrounding Trait Theories and Social Structure Theories in order to discuss the great debate of "nature versus nurture." Where it is universally agreed that no one theory can fully explain all crime, there have been numerous theories put forth to explain certain crimes.
Cesare Lombroso, viewed as the "Father of Criminology" attempted to categorize individuals as he did a detailed analysis of criminals. His idea of "born criminal" (biological determinism), is no longer taken seriously however his influence is shown even today in modern biosocial theory which reflects the assumed link between physical and social traits and their influence on behavior.
After reviewing http://scholarlycommons.law.northwestern.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1128&context=jclc (Links to an external site.)
as well as reading over chapters 5 & 6, this assignment is to select one of the two cases below and attempt to explain the criminal behavior using the theories. First, you need to select which case you wish to explore in more depth and then you need to select at least 2 theories from each chapter and write a convincing explanation of the crime and criminal behavior of the accused of each theory. It is imperative that you cite your work.
You need to select from the following cases:
- https://www.oxygen.com/crime-news/heather-barbera-sentenced-murdering-mom-grandma (Links to an external site.)
- https://people.com/crime/marybeth-tinning-child-murderer-parole-laying-low/ (Links to an external site.)
Sample Solution