Question

PLEASE HELP ASAP, I’ve been trying to do this for hours

Historically, one of the most controversial debates in the study of human development revolves around whether or not development is largely determined by heredity (genes) or environment (external factors). Just one example of the nature-nurture debate, this controversy often appears in legal cases, particularly in those that involve violent crime.

Assume that you are sitting on a jury in which a defendant is being tried for murder. The prosecutor describes a scenario in which the defendant clearly planned out the crime, went to great lengths to conceal the crime, and showed no remorse for his actions. You also hear lengthy testimony about the defendant’s history, which includes domestic violence, battery, drug offenses, and expulsion from high school for beating up two younger students for the purpose of stealing money and cell phones. The defense attorney agrees that her client committed the crime but argues that mental illness and a childhood history of abuse and neglect contributed to severe emotional problems. In addition, the defendant’s biological father was in and out of prison for violent crimes, leaving his mother alone with three children. The family lived in extreme poverty and, at times, they were homeless. Accordingly, her client should not be found guilty of murder, as his behavior was outside of his control. Now within this context please respond to all three of the following prompts.

Based on the information presented above, how might nature (genes/heredity) have influenced this defendant’s behavior? How might nurture (environment) have influenced his behavior?
In your opinion, to what extent should the jurors consider these factors in determining this person’s guilt or innocence? Explain your reasoning.
Assume that multiple experts testify that the defendant suffers from post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and schizophrenia. Would that change your view of his guilt or innocence? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Based on the information provided, both nature (genes/heredity) and nurture (environment) likely played significant roles in influencing this defendant's behavior. In terms of nature, there could be genetic predispositions to certain mental health conditions, aggression, or impulsivity that may have been inherited from his biological father. These genetic factors could have contributed to his emotional problems and behavioral issues. In terms of nurture, the defendant's environment was marked by extreme adversity, including childhood abuse, neglect, poverty, and homelessness. Such adverse environmental factors can have a profound impact on an individual's psychological well-being and behavior. It's plausible that the combination of genetic predispositions and a traumatic environment contributed to his actions.

Regarding the extent to which jurors should consider these factors in determining guilt or innocence, it's a complex matter. The legal system typically considers intent and culpability when determining guilt, and mental health issues and traumatic experiences can affect one's ability to form intent or make rational decisions. Jurors should weigh the evidence and expert testimonies carefully, considering how these factors might have influenced the defendant's state of mind at the time of the crime. However, it's ultimately a matter for the legal system to determine whether these factors diminish his culpability and, consequently, his guilt or sentencing.

If multiple experts testify that the defendant suffers from post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and schizophrenia, it could change the view of his guilt or innocence. These mental health conditions could significantly affect his capacity to understand the consequences of his actions, control his behavior, and form intent. If it can be established that he was experiencing a severe mental health crisis at the time of the crime, it may support an argument for reduced culpability or a different verdict, such as guilty but mentally ill or not guilty by reason of insanity. Expert testimonies can provide valuable insights into the defendant's mental state and its impact on his actions, potentially affecting the legal outcome.

Step-by-step explanation: