900 Finnish criminals were used in a genetic analysis research that showed that two genes were associated with violent behavior. However, it is not possible to use these two genes to detect criminals, as there are many more genes that play an important role in violent behavior and environmental factors. This study was the first to examine the genetic makeup of violent criminals. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The first gene is known as the warrior gene. Each criminal was assigned a profile based on their crimes and these were classified into violent and non-violent crimes. 78 criminals had the strongest association between genes and previous behavior and fit the profile of extremely violent offenders. This group had committed 1,154 murders, manslaughters, attempted murders or beatings. These criminals all carry a low-activity version MAOA gene (scientific name for the warrior gene because it is linked to aggressive behavior). The second gene is called the criminal gene. The MAOA gene and a variant of cadherin 13 (CDH13) are the two genes associated with violent recidivism. The MAOA gene codes for the enzyme monoamine oxidase A. This enzyme controls the amount of dopamine (which plays a role in the functioning of the body and brain) and serotonin (present in the central nervous system), which is the basis of our behavior . Criminals classified as nonviolent offenders did not have this genetic profile. There is a deficiency of the enzyme that could result in “dopamine overactivity” and this mostly occurs when an individual takes alcohol or drugs. Most crimes in Finland are committed when criminals are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. At this time, the person's genetic information should not affect his or her sentencing in criminal courts. There are many things that contribute to a person's mental capacity, but the only thing that matters is whether a person understands the consequences of what they are doing and whether they can control their behavior. There is nothing that takes away free will or understanding of right or wrong, genes and environment only influence this to a certain extent. Genetic factors only make it more difficult to control violent impulses, but they cannot determine the duration of a crime. This source is recent; was published on October 28, 2014. There was similar information on this topic, so I don't doubt my findings. There is no bias, the tone of the writing was formal and, as if adequate research had been done, the language was of high quality. No result was left out. This can be considered reliable. The author is a BBC News science journalist and her credentials are highly regarded. A number of scientists who found similar results also confirmed this article. The findings of the scientists on which the article is based come from different universities. It was not mentioned whether the findings were reviewed. This research was conducted in Finland but it does not affect the research because people have the same genes in other countries and the crimes of these criminals are committed everywhere. This is therefore considered valid. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay This narrowed my search and gave me a better understanding of how and what genes can influence criminals to commit crimes. This could help me structure a questionnaire asking them how they felt when they committed.
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