Cases

Biology can influence criminality through a variety of genetic, neurological, and hormonal factors. Genetic factors can influence criminal behavior by increasing the likelihood of developing certain personality traits such as impulsivity, aggression, and low empathy. Neurological factors, such as brain damage or dysfunction, can also lead to criminal behavior. Hormonal factors, such as testosterone and cortisol levels, have been linked to increased aggression and antisocial behavior. Of course, biological factors are not the only determinants of criminal behavior. Environmental factors can also play a significant role. For example, poverty, social inequality, exposure to violence, and many other environmental triggers can influence criminal behavior. So, does an individual commit a violent act because of nature, nurture, or a combination of both?

Keep in mind that no two criminal cases are alike, and the roles that biology or environment play can vary widely. For this Assignment, you will carefully examine two seminal violent crime cases and consider the roles that biological and environmental factors may have played.

Review the Learning Resources for this Assignment, paying special attention to those addressing the Eric Smith and Joel Rifkin cases.

Conduct your own research online and/or in the Walden Library to identify three or more credible sources of information/evidence (e.g., court documents, documentaries, journal articles, news reports, etc.) about each of the offenders.

For each case, consider the biological and environmental factors that may have influenced the perpetrator’s criminal actions.

Note: Some factors may overlap and be applicable to both the biological and environmental categories.

Use the APA Course Paper Template (APA 7) found in this week’s Learning Resources to complete your Assignment.

Assignment (3-4 pages, not including title and references pages)

Address the following in your paper:

Summarize each case in your own words.

Compare and contrast the Smith and Rifkin cases in terms of the biological factors that may have influenced their criminal actions.

Compare and contrast the Smith and Rifkin cases in terms of the environmental factors that may have influenced their criminal actions.

Summarize your key takeaways and explain your perspective on how biological and environmental factors may influence criminal behavior.

Note: Use this week’s Learning Resources, as well as the three or more credible sources of information/evidence you identified to support your Assignment. Use proper APA format and style for all references and citations.