What does the constitutional approach claim about individual behavior?

Study for the Criminology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The constitutional approach posits that an individual's behavior is heavily influenced by their biological and physiological constitution. This perspective suggests that elements such as genetics, brain structure, and physical health can significantly shape a person's predispositions toward certain behaviors, including criminality.

Proponents of this view argue that inherent characteristics play a crucial role in determining how individuals respond to various stimuli and situations, influencing their decision-making processes and actions. This emphasis on the role of an individual's biological makeup aligns with findings in fields such as behavioral genetics and neuropsychology, which suggest that the predispositions stemming from one's physical constitution can significantly impact behavior.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the constitutional approach. The notion that societal norms and values influence behavior is more characteristic of sociological theories, which focus on the external environment’s effects rather than individual biology. Similarly, the suggestion that individual choices have no impact on behavior misrepresents the nuanced view of the constitutional approach, as it acknowledges that while biology plays a critical role, choices are still made within that framework. Finally, the idea that the environment has a minimal role contradicts the perspective that biological factors are just one part of a broader set of influences on behavior. Thus, A is the most aligned with the core

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