Final answer:
The XYY chromosome theory of crime posits that criminal behavior is caused by an extra Y chromosome in males. It originates from early observations of XYY syndrome but is not supported by current scientific evidence.Hence, the correct answer is option A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The XYY chromosome theory of crime suggests that criminal behavior is caused by an extra Y chromosome in males. This theory is based on the observation that some individuals with an atypical number of sex chromosomes exhibit certain physical and behavioral characteristics. However, the theory is very controversial and not widely accepted in the scientific community. Humans typically have 23 pairs of chromosomes, including one pair of sex chromosomes: XX for females and XY for males. Errors during meiosis, the process of forming gametes, can result in males with an additional Y chromosome, termed XYY syndrome. These individuals are usually phenotypically normal but historically were thought to have increased rates of aggressive behavior, leading to the XYY chromosome theory of crime. However, further research has shown there is no direct causative link between the XYY karyotype and criminal behavior.