WJEC Criminology, Unit 2, Sheldon's Theory - Biological. 100% accurate answers

WJEC Criminology, Unit 2, Sheldon's Theory - Biological. 100% accurate answers What type of theory did Sheldon come up with? Physiological Theory. What was Sheldon's main idea? He believed that certain somatotypes or physiques that attributed to the likelihood of criminality. How many body types did Sheldon identify? Sheldon identified 3 body types and linked each body type with a personality. What did Sheldon describe an Endomorph as? Sheldon described endomorphs as people who are round with velvety skin and can put on weight easily. He said they had a viscerotonic temperament as they seek comfort but are sociable and easy going too. What did Sheldon describe an Mesomorph as? Sheldon described mesomorphs as people who are well-built and have a somotonic temperament so are energetic but aggressive which makes them the most likely to be criminals in society. What did Sheldon describe an Ectomorph as? Sheldon described ectomorphs as people who are lean and have a delicate body. They have a cerebrotonic temperament so they are introverts and shrink away from crowds. What are the strengths of Sheldon's theory? One strength is that he used a decent-sized sample (200) and he had a control condition of non-offenders (students) to compare the results too. Another advantage is that Putwain & Sammons (and other studies) found that there is a small association between bodily build and criminality. What are the limitations of Sheldon's theory? One limitation is that the theory doesn't take into account that people's bodies change throughout their lives. Another disadvantage is that if a mesomorph's shape is considered criminal do the courts think this too? If so they could be treated more harshly, increasing the likelihood that they will be officially labelled as a criminal.