Elliott Thomas

Mr. Stowe

English 103, Section 20

21 October 2011

Nature vs. Nurture Outline

1.     Introduction

·      Hook- Nature versus nurture has been a lasting debate for several decades. So when will

·      Thesis- Criminal behavior is determined by a combination of nature and nurture because one relies on the other for development.

·      All of the research I have gathered supports both nature and nurture affecting human behavior, and that will be discussed in the introduction.

2.     Genes Role in Criminal Behavior

·      What genes affect behavior?

·      Serotonin and Dopamine are responsible for the activation of some genes and how those genes are expressed.

·      Certain neurochemicals are known to have a part in the initiation of violent behavior.

·      This image can be used a transition and create humor in the research paper.

·      Paul Arnold believes that, even though genes play a large role in behavior, one is still responsible for his or her crimes.

3.     Studies on twins in relation to behavior

·      First the studies discussed in the article “Sociological and Environmental Factors of Criminal Behavior” will be introduced. It states that twins raised by an adoptive family are as aggressive as that family, and not their biological parents.

·      Then Dr. Farber’s findings will be discussed. She believes that twins who are raised together have more differences than those raised apart because they are trying to create their own identity. This finding also supports the role of environment in behavioral development.

·      The picture above will be used to show the relationship between fraternal twins and identical twins.

·      Joe Richman’s article also supports the environmental affects on behavior of twins.

4.     Case about the Italian

·      Five brain scans were performed in order to come to the conclusion that 5 of the murderer’s genes were associated with violent behavior.

·      Some doctors are questioning the legitimacy of the reports because it all boils down to gene expression.

5.     Environment’s role in criminal behavior

·      Psychologists believe that deviants commit crimes because of “unsuccessful socialization”.

·      Dinitz and Reckless’ study will be discussed in order to prove that environment is a key component in developing certain behaviors and personalities.

6.     Nature and Nurture

·      The four remaining sources that I gathered that contain both nature and nurture will be used to support my argument.

·     

·      This image will be used to show that