Genetics and Criminal Behavior

Abstract

Research reported up through and including the 1970s directly bearing upon the relationship between genetics and criminality is received. Studies using four classes of research designs are considered: general pedigree (or family) studies, twin studies, kanjotype studies, and adoption studies. Only the latter three offer solid evidence at least consistent with a partial genetic etiological hypothesis, and of these, only one type of karyotype study and the adoption studies appear to he on the verge of definitely settling the matter. Among the fairly definitive types of studies, most of the tendence is extremely supportive of the proposition that human variation in tendencies to commit criminal behavior is significantly affected by some genetic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]