1.
Refers to the idea that criminals possess primitive evolutionary traits, making them biologically predisposed to criminal behaviour.
2.
Physical characteristics that Lombroso believed identified someone as a born criminal.
3.
type The belief that criminals form a distinct biological category different from non-criminals.
4.
determinism The view that behaviour is controlled by biological factors, leaving little or no free will.
5.
A limitation of Lombroso’s theory because it explains criminal behaviour using biology alone, ignoring social factors.
6.
A criticism that Lombroso’s research was culturally biased, based mainly on Italian men.
7.
bias A criticism that the theory is male-centred and cannot easily explain female criminality.
8.
Based on direct observation or measurement, rather than opinion.
9.
Relating to the measurement of human physical characteristics.
10.
A research method involving watching and recording behaviour or characteristics.
11.
The extent to which findings are consistent and repeatable; Lombroso’s methods were often subjective.
12.
The assumption that one factor directly causes another; Lombroso assumed physical traits caused crime.
13.
A discredited early approach linking skull shape to personality and behaviour.
14.
Criminology An early attempt to study crime scientifically and objectively, associated with Lombroso’s work.
