The Biosocial Perspective: A Brief Overview and Potential Contributions to Criminological Theory

Abstract

Over the past century or so, biology has fallen in and out of favor among criminologists. The development of efficient and cost-effective neuro- and genetic imaging techniques, the availability of data containing biological measures, and the increasing motivation for truly interdisciplinary research has sparked a biological resurgence of sorts, in which researchers are devoting equal attention to both biological and social influences on behavior. Integrative efforts aimed at nesting mainstream criminological questions, theories, and concepts within the biosocial perspective have grown exponentially over recent years, but still remain “fringe” compared to more mainstream perspectives. In light of these developments, this chapter aims to accomplish three goals. First, this chapter “takes stock” of the current criminological landscape through a biosocial lens in an effort to better document the progress that has been made and what areas would benefit from additional attention in future research. Second, this chapter is intended to serve as an introductory primer for criminologists who are interested in the biosocial perspective but have yet to identify other, more expansive introductory texts (e.g., Beaver, 2016). Third and finally, this chapter provides specific examples of the ways in which mainstream criminological theories or concepts can be augmented via biosocial integration.