Blaming the Parts Instead of the Person: Understanding and Applying Neurobiological Factors Associated with Psychopathy

• NCJ Number: 229754
• Journal: Canadian Journal of Criminology and Criminal Justice Volume: 52 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2010 Pages: 29-53
• Author(s): Lauren F. Freedman; Simon N. Verdun-Jones
• Date Published: January 2010
• Length: 25 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: Canada

Annotation

This article examines in-depth the argument that individuals with psychopathy are neurobiologically different from their non-psychopathic counterparts and that these differences affect their inclination to violate the law.

Abstract

This article examines the implications of the body of research that asserts that psychopaths have neurobiological irregularities that are manifested by learning and fear-processing deficits as well as neurotransmitter abnormalities. While this research suggests that psychopaths may have many neurobiological irregularities, the present article focuses on abnormalities related to the amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex of the brain, in addition to those related to neurotransmitters. It is argued that these irregularities influence the conduct of psychopaths and help to explain their propensity to engage in antisocial behavior. Further, it is argued that these factors should mitigate the degree of criminal responsibility that is attributed to the actions of psychopathic offenders. References (Published Abstract)