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Maya is researching the family history of two famous brothers who were convicted of murder. She discovers that their father was also a convicted murderer, their mother had several convictions for household burglary, and their maternal grandparents were bank robbers. Based on this, Maya claims that the brothers' involvement in crime is inherited. Maya's claim is based on the concept of ________.

A) Atavism
B) Somatotyping
C) Social learning
D) Genetic predisposition

User FoxyLad
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Final answer:

Maya's claim is based on the concept of Genetic predisposition, which suggests that individuals may inherit traits that influence their propensity for certain behaviors, including crime. However, it is crucial to consider environmental factors as significant contributors to behavior.

Step-by-step explanation:

Maya's claim that the brothers' involvement in crime is inherited is based on the concept of D) Genetic predisposition. Genetic predisposition suggests that individuals may inherit traits from their biological parents that could potentially influence their behaviors or tendencies, including the likelihood of engaging in criminal activities. This concept posits that genetics could play a role in behavior, although it is essential to also consider environmental and social factors when researching and understanding criminal behavior.

Sutherland's theory of social learning suggests that criminal behavior is learned by association with others who engage in crime. However, in this case, Maya is attributing criminal behavior directly to genetic inheritance rather than learned behavior. While some studies indicate the presence of certain genes, such as the MAOA gene, that may increase one's propensity for aggressive behavior, it is critical to acknowledge that such genetic factors are not deterministic, and environment plays a substantial role in human behavior.

User Artouiros
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