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Biological and Environmental Correlates of Aggressive Behavior

NCJ Number
232047
Journal
Journal of Forensic Psychology Practice Volume: 10 Issue: 4 Dated: July - September 2010 Pages: 300-324
Author(s)
George B. Palermo, M.D., Ph.D.
Date Published
July 2010
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This article reviews research that examines the biological and environmental correlates of aggressive behavior.
Abstract
Aggressive behavior is influenced by the interplay of multiple genes that operate on brain biochemical pathways, neurotransmitters, and hormones, producing a certain psychological predisposition that, in contact with environmental risks within or outside the family, is conducive to antisocial aggressive behavior. This brief review of the scientific research shows that such behavior is the result of these predisposing, but not causal, factors. The importance of the individual's unique decisional capacity in such behavior is a question that requires further research. References (Published Abstract)