The Misconception of the 'Lethal Genetic Factor' - The Baseless Claim of the Lethal Genetic Trait
Article:
Title: Genetics and Criminal Behavior: Debunking the Myth of the "Born Killer"
A Rostock psychological drama, "Polizeiruf 110: Born Evil," raises questions about the notion of a "natural born killer" when the true murderer turns out to be the neighbor's boy, not the son of a serial killer. The portrayal of Milan Greuner, a loner with a suspicious past, serves as a reminder of the human tendency to seek simple explanations for complex issues.
In reality, according to scientific research, criminal behavior is not dictated by a singular "criminal gene." Rather, it emerges from a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors, as well as personal development. One Finnish study that analyzed the link between crime and genetic factors discovered two genetic locations that showed a higher frequency in violent criminals – the MAO-A and CDH13 genes.
The MAO-A gene, found on the X chromosome, encodes an enzyme critical for the breakdown of neurotransmitters like serotonin. Variations in this gene have been linked to increased irritability and aggression, particularly in males, but only when combined with traumatic childhood experiences like sexual abuse. Meanwhile, the CDH13 gene, which is involved in cell adhesion and neural development, has been associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and conduct disorder.
However, having these genetic variations does not deterministically lead to criminal behavior. Researchers emphasize that criminal behavior is a complex phenomenon influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. The "Natural Born Killer" is simply a popular cliché.
Scientific studies suggest that the MAO-A gene may be one of the clearest genetic risk factors for aggressive and criminal behavior identified, while the connection between CDH13 and crime is less robust. Both genes act within complex networks of genetic, neural, and environmental factors, and neither is deterministic. Most criminal behavior results from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure.
The ongoing debate surrounding the use of genetic information in criminology highlights concerns about stigmatization, discrimination, and misuse of genetic data. Despite this, the scientific community underscores the importance of considering genetic factors in context, rather than relying on them as sole predictors of criminal behavior.
Psychological Drama: Polizeiruf 110: Born EvilMurder: DeathGenetics: MAO-A, CDH13, Genetic InfluencesEnvironment: Childhood experiencesSociety: Stigmatization, discrimination
- While the psychological drama "Police call 110: Born Evil" presents the concept of a 'natural born killer', scientific studies refute this notion, showing that criminal behavior stems from a combination of genetic factors, environmental influences, personal development, and traumatic experiences, particularly for the MAO-A gene.
- In light of this, the ongoing debate in society about the use of genetic information in criminology emphasizes the need to address issues of stigmatization and discrimination, promoting a holistic approach that considers mental health, health-and-wellness, and therapies-and-treatments, rather than relying solely on genetics in predicting criminal behavior.
