A unified crime theory: The evolutionary taxonomy

Exploring the genetic correlations of antisocial behavior and life history traits

“…Finally, although somewhat elevated, the magnitude of the genetic correlations observed herein is similar in magnitude compared to other related phenotypes, utilizing alternative samples [5,14]. These results, although promising and guided by prior theory [7], should be viewed only as preliminary.…”

“…As a result, studies utilizing genome-wide techniques in large samples have become the preferred approach to unraveling the genetic architectures of complex traits (which have previously been shown to be moderately heritable) [4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. Recent GWAS of antisocial phenotypes revealed a number of trait-relevant alleles that were nearly genome-wide significant [5,10].…”

“…The present study explores the genome-wide genetic correlation between reproductive traits and antisocial behavior. By examining the extent to which alleles associated with antisocial behavior are related to alleles underpinning variation in reproductive outcomes, this study could provide a better understanding of why these traits tend to correlate at the phenotypic level [7].…”

“…What remains in need of further testing is whether the genetic underpinnings of antisocial behavior covary with the genetic underpinnings of reproductive indicators. For this topic, in particular, prior theoretical work has suggested that some forms of antisocial behavior may represent natural variation in broad reproductive strategies-captured broadly in the area of life history evolution-that have been shaped by natural selection over the course of human evolution [7]. This line of reasoning makes the explicit prediction that reproductive and antisocial behavior should be correlated at a phenotypic level, and perhaps at a genetic level, such that alleles associated with antisocial behavior are also associated with higher reproductive output and more rapid physical maturation.…”

Radicalization as a Functional Aspect of Crime

“…The perceived deficiencies in these theories have given rise to several lines of research, for example, resilience research which holds that factors like temperament and self-esteem influence response to pressures and attractions (Losel and Bender, 2003;Rutter, 2006). Other approaches include the psychological research which describes how traits such as negative emotions, hostile interpretation of others intentions, and the biological research concerned with genetic factors that influence response to criminal pressures and attractions (Beaver et al, 2015). Despite the criticisms of these early theoretical models, they serve as good starting points for understanding some of the behaviours that can lead to criminal acts.…”