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Please go through the discussion and assignment and let me know if you have any questions you have. Please no Chats or AI – an hour ago **files (3)** – ## Topic_Week4_Discussion15.pdf – ## Week4_AtaGlance_TheCriminalMind-Fall2026.pdf – ## Week4_Assignment14.pdf **## Topic_Week4_Discussion15.p…
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Please go through the discussion and assignment and let me know if you have any questions you have. Please no Chats or AI
– an hour ago
**files (3)**
– ## Topic_Week4_Discussion15.pdf
– ## Week4_AtaGlance_TheCriminalMind-Fall2026.pdf
– ## Week4_Assignment14.pdf
**## Topic_Week4_Discussion15.pdf**
BIOLOGY AND CRIMINAL
RESPONSIBILITY
Advancements in neuroscience have provided a better understanding of how the brain
works and how specific genes influence behavior. For example, we now know that the part
of the brain responsible for judgment and decision making, called the prefrontal cortex, is
not fully developed in teenagers. This may explain why some teenagers pursue risk
without fear and struggle to make sound decisions. Neuroscientists have also identified
specific genes that may be linked to criminal behavior. Criminal defense lawyers have
attempted to capitalize on these advancements, arguing that clients who are biologically
or genetically predisposed to crime should be less criminally responsible and receive
lighter sentences than those who are not predisposed.
In this Discussion, you explore this controversial topic in more detail.
Post a response that addresses the following:
To what degree do genetic and biological factors lessen or exempt a criminal
offender’s responsibility?
Should some genetic and/or biological factors qualify offenders for lighter sentences
compared to other genetic and/or biological factors? Why or why not?
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
BY DAY 3
BY DAY 5
10/20/26, 3:01 PM Topic: Week 4: Discussion
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/discussion_topics/3907225?module_item_id=10868048 1/2
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
Respond to at least two colleagues:
Choose a response that is different from your own.
Respectfully agree or disagree with their argument regarding the extent to which
genetic and biological factors limit criminal responsibility.
10/20/26, 3:01 PM Topic: Week 4: Discussion
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/discussion_topics/3907225?module_item_id=10868048 2/2
**## Week4_AtaGlance_TheCriminalMind-Fall2026.pdf**
WEEK 4: AT A GLANCE
MY GENES MADE ME DO IT—BIOLOGICAL THEORIES OF
CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR
INTRODUCTION
In the late 1800s, criminologists began to explore
biological causes of criminal behavior. One such
criminologist, Cesare Lombroso, proposed a
theory suggesting that criminal offenders have
distinct facial features (e.g., asymmetrical
features, protruding jaws, and receding foreheads
and chins) compared to non-offenders. This
theory was later disproven, but the premise that
there is a biological component to criminal
behavior has persisted. This week, you explore
biological concepts and theories related to
criminal behavior.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Students will:
Evaluate the degree to which genetic and biological factors exempt criminal responsibility
Apply biological theories of criminal behavior
Analyze the interaction among and the cumulative effects of social, behavioral, cognitive,
psychological, and biological factors on criminal behavior
DISCUSSION ASSIGNMENT QUIZ RESOURCES WEEK IN REVIEW
10/20/26, 3:00 PM Week 4: At a Glance: The Criminal Mind-Fall 2026
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/pages/week-4-at-a-glance?module_item_id=10868045 1/1
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[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868051](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868051)
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[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062)
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**## Week4_Assignment14.pdf**
GENETIC AND BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF
CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR
You may have heard the saying that biology is the gun and the environment is the trigger. This saying
suggests that a genetic or biological predisposition to criminal behavior is not enough on its own to
cause criminal behavior. Rather, criminal behavior is more likely to occur when a combination of
biological/genetic factors and environmental factors are present.
For this Assignment, you consider the genetic and biological causes of criminal behavior in the Keen
family. You also consider how social, behavioral, cognitive, and psychological factors interact with
genetic/biological factors to increase the likelihood of criminal behavior.
Submit a 500- to 750-word paper in which you address the following:
How do the following factors account for the criminal behavior in the case study?
Genetics
Biology
How do the social, behavioral, cognitive, and psychological factors you identified over the past 3
weeks interact with the genetic and biological factors listed above to create a cumulative effect on
the criminal behavior in the case study?
Support your response with specific examples from the case study, theories from the Learning
Resources, and relevant professional experience.
Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check
your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area.
1. To submit your completed assignment, save your Assignment as
WK4Assgn_LastName_Firstinitial
2. Then, click on Start Assignment near the top of the page.
3. Next, click on Upload File and select Submit Assignment for review.
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
BY DAY 7
SUBMISSION INFORMATION
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 1/4
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
CRJS_4102_Week4_Assignment_Rubric
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Criteria Ratings Pts
Explain how
genetics
accounts for
the criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
30 pts
Explain how
biology
accounts for
the criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
30 pts
Explain how
social,
behavioral,
cognitive,
and
psychological
factors
interact with
genetic and
biological
factors to
create a
cumulative
effect on the
criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
35 pts
Format and
writing
18 pts
30 to >26.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
26 to >20.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
20 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
30 to >26.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
26 to >20.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
20 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
35 to >30.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
30 to >24.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
24 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
18 to >15.6 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
Any spelling, grammar,
and/or punctuation
15.6 to >12.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
Submission contains few
spelling, grammar, and/or
12 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
Submission contains
multiple spelling, grammar,
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 3/4
Criteria Ratings Pts
Timeliness
12 pts
Total Points: 125
deviations from Standard
Academic English are
minor and do not affect
clear communication.
Communication
demonstrates discipline-
specific conventions, such
as stylistic choices
appropriate to an
academic audience. Work
includes multiple explicit
mentions of concepts or
ideas from the required
sources correctly cited and
formatted if specified by
the
assignment/discussion. A
reference page is included
and properly formatted.
punctuation deviations
from Standard Academic
English, OR these
deviations do not affect
clear communication.
Work includes one or more
explicit mentions of a
concept or idea from the
required sources if
specified by the
assignment/discussion’s
directions and an attempt
at citing the source has
been made. A reference
page is included.
and/or punctuation
deviations from Standard
Academic English,
affecting clear
communication. Work
does not include any
explicit mention of
concepts or ideas from the
required sources, OR it
contains one or more
explicit mention of a
concept or idea from the
required sources, if
specified by the
assignment/discussion’s
directions, but without any
attempt at citing the
source. A reference page
is not included.
12 to >10.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
The assignment is
submitted according to
posted due dates and
times or late with prior
consent from the
instructor.
10 to >8.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
The assignment is
submitted within the
allowed time.
8 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
The assignment is not
submitted on time.
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 4/4
**## Week4_Assignment14.pdf**
GENETIC AND BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF
CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR
You may have heard the saying that biology is the gun and the environment is the trigger. This saying
suggests that a genetic or biological predisposition to criminal behavior is not enough on its own to
cause criminal behavior. Rather, criminal behavior is more likely to occur when a combination of
biological/genetic factors and environmental factors are present.
For this Assignment, you consider the genetic and biological causes of criminal behavior in the Keen
family. You also consider how social, behavioral, cognitive, and psychological factors interact with
genetic/biological factors to increase the likelihood of criminal behavior.
Submit a 500- to 750-word paper in which you address the following:
How do the following factors account for the criminal behavior in the case study?
Genetics
Biology
How do the social, behavioral, cognitive, and psychological factors you identified over the past 3
weeks interact with the genetic and biological factors listed above to create a cumulative effect on
the criminal behavior in the case study?
Support your response with specific examples from the case study, theories from the Learning
Resources, and relevant professional experience.
Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check
your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area.
1. To submit your completed assignment, save your Assignment as
WK4Assgn_LastName_Firstinitial
2. Then, click on Start Assignment near the top of the page.
3. Next, click on Upload File and select Submit Assignment for review.
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
BY DAY 7
SUBMISSION INFORMATION
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 1/4
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
CRJS_4102_Week4_Assignment_Rubric
Upload a file, or choose a file you've already uploaded.
Comments…
File Upload Text Entry
Drag a file here, or
Choose a file to upload
I agree to the tool's End-User License Agreement
This assignment submission is my own, original work
*
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 2/4
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[https://api.turnitin.com/api/lti/1p0/user/static_eula](https://api.turnitin.com/api/lti/1p0/user/static_eula)
Criteria Ratings Pts
Explain how
genetics
accounts for
the criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
30 pts
Explain how
biology
accounts for
the criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
30 pts
Explain how
social,
behavioral,
cognitive,
and
psychological
factors
interact with
genetic and
biological
factors to
create a
cumulative
effect on the
criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
35 pts
Format and
writing
18 pts
30 to >26.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
26 to >20.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
20 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
30 to >26.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
26 to >20.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
20 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
35 to >30.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
30 to >24.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
24 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
18 to >15.6 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
Any spelling, grammar,
and/or punctuation
15.6 to >12.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
Submission contains few
spelling, grammar, and/or
12 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
Submission contains
multiple spelling, grammar,
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 3/4
Criteria Ratings Pts
Timeliness
12 pts
Total Points: 125
deviations from Standard
Academic English are
minor and do not affect
clear communication.
Communication
demonstrates discipline-
specific conventions, such
as stylistic choices
appropriate to an
academic audience. Work
includes multiple explicit
mentions of concepts or
ideas from the required
sources correctly cited and
formatted if specified by
the
assignment/discussion. A
reference page is included
and properly formatted.
punctuation deviations
from Standard Academic
English, OR these
deviations do not affect
clear communication.
Work includes one or more
explicit mentions of a
concept or idea from the
required sources if
specified by the
assignment/discussion’s
directions and an attempt
at citing the source has
been made. A reference
page is included.
and/or punctuation
deviations from Standard
Academic English,
affecting clear
communication. Work
does not include any
explicit mention of
concepts or ideas from the
required sources, OR it
contains one or more
explicit mention of a
concept or idea from the
required sources, if
specified by the
assignment/discussion’s
directions, but without any
attempt at citing the
source. A reference page
is not included.
12 to >10.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
The assignment is
submitted according to
posted due dates and
times or late with prior
consent from the
instructor.
10 to >8.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
The assignment is
submitted within the
allowed time.
8 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
The assignment is not
submitted on time.
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 4/4
**## Topic_Week4_Discussion15.pdf**
BIOLOGY AND CRIMINAL
RESPONSIBILITY
Advancements in neuroscience have provided a better understanding of how the brain
works and how specific genes influence behavior. For example, we now know that the part
of the brain responsible for judgment and decision making, called the prefrontal cortex, is
not fully developed in teenagers. This may explain why some teenagers pursue risk
without fear and struggle to make sound decisions. Neuroscientists have also identified
specific genes that may be linked to criminal behavior. Criminal defense lawyers have
attempted to capitalize on these advancements, arguing that clients who are biologically
or genetically predisposed to crime should be less criminally responsible and receive
lighter sentences than those who are not predisposed.
In this Discussion, you explore this controversial topic in more detail.
Post a response that addresses the following:
To what degree do genetic and biological factors lessen or exempt a criminal
offender’s responsibility?
Should some genetic and/or biological factors qualify offenders for lighter sentences
compared to other genetic and/or biological factors? Why or why not?
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
BY DAY 3
BY DAY 5
10/20/26, 3:01 PM Topic: Week 4: Discussion
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/discussion_topics/3907225?module_item_id=10868048 1/2
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
Respond to at least two colleagues:
Choose a response that is different from your own.
Respectfully agree or disagree with their argument regarding the extent to which
genetic and biological factors limit criminal responsibility.
10/20/26, 3:01 PM Topic: Week 4: Discussion
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/discussion_topics/3907225?module_item_id=10868048 2/2
**## Week4_AtaGlance_TheCriminalMind-Fall2026.pdf**
WEEK 4: AT A GLANCE
MY GENES MADE ME DO IT—BIOLOGICAL THEORIES OF
CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR
INTRODUCTION
In the late 1800s, criminologists began to explore
biological causes of criminal behavior. One such
criminologist, Cesare Lombroso, proposed a
theory suggesting that criminal offenders have
distinct facial features (e.g., asymmetrical
features, protruding jaws, and receding foreheads
and chins) compared to non-offenders. This
theory was later disproven, but the premise that
there is a biological component to criminal
behavior has persisted. This week, you explore
biological concepts and theories related to
criminal behavior.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Students will:
Evaluate the degree to which genetic and biological factors exempt criminal responsibility
Apply biological theories of criminal behavior
Analyze the interaction among and the cumulative effects of social, behavioral, cognitive,
psychological, and biological factors on criminal behavior
DISCUSSION ASSIGNMENT QUIZ RESOURCES WEEK IN REVIEW
10/20/26, 3:00 PM Week 4: At a Glance: The Criminal Mind-Fall 2026
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/pages/week-4-at-a-glance?module_item_id=10868045 1/1
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868048](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868048)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868048](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868048)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868051](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868051)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868051](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868051)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868056](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868056)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868056](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868056)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062)
[https://cdn-media.waldenu.edu/2dett4d/Walden/Canvas/Getty/1920×938/GettyLicense_645455730.jpg](https://cdn-media.waldenu.edu/2dett4d/Walden/Canvas/Getty/1920×938/GettyLicense_645455730.jpg)
**## Week4_Assignment14.pdf**
GENETIC AND BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF
CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR
You may have heard the saying that biology is the gun and the environment is the trigger. This saying
suggests that a genetic or biological predisposition to criminal behavior is not enough on its own to
cause criminal behavior. Rather, criminal behavior is more likely to occur when a combination of
biological/genetic factors and environmental factors are present.
For this Assignment, you consider the genetic and biological causes of criminal behavior in the Keen
family. You also consider how social, behavioral, cognitive, and psychological factors interact with
genetic/biological factors to increase the likelihood of criminal behavior.
Submit a 500- to 750-word paper in which you address the following:
How do the following factors account for the criminal behavior in the case study?
Genetics
Biology
How do the social, behavioral, cognitive, and psychological factors you identified over the past 3
weeks interact with the genetic and biological factors listed above to create a cumulative effect on
the criminal behavior in the case study?
Support your response with specific examples from the case study, theories from the Learning
Resources, and relevant professional experience.
Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check
your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area.
1. To submit your completed assignment, save your Assignment as
WK4Assgn_LastName_Firstinitial
2. Then, click on Start Assignment near the top of the page.
3. Next, click on Upload File and select Submit Assignment for review.
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
BY DAY 7
SUBMISSION INFORMATION
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 1/4
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
CRJS_4102_Week4_Assignment_Rubric
Upload a file, or choose a file you've already uploaded.
Comments…
File Upload Text Entry
Drag a file here, or
Choose a file to upload
I agree to the tool's End-User License Agreement
This assignment submission is my own, original work
*
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
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Criteria Ratings Pts
Explain how
genetics
accounts for
the criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
30 pts
Explain how
biology
accounts for
the criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
30 pts
Explain how
social,
behavioral,
cognitive,
and
psychological
factors
interact with
genetic and
biological
factors to
create a
cumulative
effect on the
criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
35 pts
Format and
writing
18 pts
30 to >26.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
26 to >20.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
20 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
30 to >26.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
26 to >20.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
20 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
35 to >30.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
30 to >24.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
24 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
18 to >15.6 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
Any spelling, grammar,
and/or punctuation
15.6 to >12.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
Submission contains few
spelling, grammar, and/or
12 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
Submission contains
multiple spelling, grammar,
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 3/4
Criteria Ratings Pts
Timeliness
12 pts
Total Points: 125
deviations from Standard
Academic English are
minor and do not affect
clear communication.
Communication
demonstrates discipline-
specific conventions, such
as stylistic choices
appropriate to an
academic audience. Work
includes multiple explicit
mentions of concepts or
ideas from the required
sources correctly cited and
formatted if specified by
the
assignment/discussion. A
reference page is included
and properly formatted.
punctuation deviations
from Standard Academic
English, OR these
deviations do not affect
clear communication.
Work includes one or more
explicit mentions of a
concept or idea from the
required sources if
specified by the
assignment/discussion’s
directions and an attempt
at citing the source has
been made. A reference
page is included.
and/or punctuation
deviations from Standard
Academic English,
affecting clear
communication. Work
does not include any
explicit mention of
concepts or ideas from the
required sources, OR it
contains one or more
explicit mention of a
concept or idea from the
required sources, if
specified by the
assignment/discussion’s
directions, but without any
attempt at citing the
source. A reference page
is not included.
12 to >10.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
The assignment is
submitted according to
posted due dates and
times or late with prior
consent from the
instructor.
10 to >8.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
The assignment is
submitted within the
allowed time.
8 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
The assignment is not
submitted on time.
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 4/4
**## Topic_Week4_Discussion15.pdf**
BIOLOGY AND CRIMINAL
RESPONSIBILITY
Advancements in neuroscience have provided a better understanding of how the brain
works and how specific genes influence behavior. For example, we now know that the part
of the brain responsible for judgment and decision making, called the prefrontal cortex, is
not fully developed in teenagers. This may explain why some teenagers pursue risk
without fear and struggle to make sound decisions. Neuroscientists have also identified
specific genes that may be linked to criminal behavior. Criminal defense lawyers have
attempted to capitalize on these advancements, arguing that clients who are biologically
or genetically predisposed to crime should be less criminally responsible and receive
lighter sentences than those who are not predisposed.
In this Discussion, you explore this controversial topic in more detail.
Post a response that addresses the following:
To what degree do genetic and biological factors lessen or exempt a criminal
offender’s responsibility?
Should some genetic and/or biological factors qualify offenders for lighter sentences
compared to other genetic and/or biological factors? Why or why not?
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
BY DAY 3
BY DAY 5
10/20/26, 3:01 PM Topic: Week 4: Discussion
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/discussion_topics/3907225?module_item_id=10868048 1/2
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
Respond to at least two colleagues:
Choose a response that is different from your own.
Respectfully agree or disagree with their argument regarding the extent to which
genetic and biological factors limit criminal responsibility.
10/20/26, 3:01 PM Topic: Week 4: Discussion
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/discussion_topics/3907225?module_item_id=10868048 2/2
**## Week4_AtaGlance_TheCriminalMind-Fall2026.pdf**
WEEK 4: AT A GLANCE
MY GENES MADE ME DO IT—BIOLOGICAL THEORIES OF
CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR
INTRODUCTION
In the late 1800s, criminologists began to explore
biological causes of criminal behavior. One such
criminologist, Cesare Lombroso, proposed a
theory suggesting that criminal offenders have
distinct facial features (e.g., asymmetrical
features, protruding jaws, and receding foreheads
and chins) compared to non-offenders. This
theory was later disproven, but the premise that
there is a biological component to criminal
behavior has persisted. This week, you explore
biological concepts and theories related to
criminal behavior.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Students will:
Evaluate the degree to which genetic and biological factors exempt criminal responsibility
Apply biological theories of criminal behavior
Analyze the interaction among and the cumulative effects of social, behavioral, cognitive,
psychological, and biological factors on criminal behavior
DISCUSSION ASSIGNMENT QUIZ RESOURCES WEEK IN REVIEW
10/20/26, 3:00 PM Week 4: At a Glance: The Criminal Mind-Fall 2026
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[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868051](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868051)
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[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868056](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868056)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868056](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868056)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868059)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062)
[https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062](https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/modules/items/10868062)
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**## Week4_Assignment14.pdf**
GENETIC AND BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF
CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR
You may have heard the saying that biology is the gun and the environment is the trigger. This saying
suggests that a genetic or biological predisposition to criminal behavior is not enough on its own to
cause criminal behavior. Rather, criminal behavior is more likely to occur when a combination of
biological/genetic factors and environmental factors are present.
For this Assignment, you consider the genetic and biological causes of criminal behavior in the Keen
family. You also consider how social, behavioral, cognitive, and psychological factors interact with
genetic/biological factors to increase the likelihood of criminal behavior.
Submit a 500- to 750-word paper in which you address the following:
How do the following factors account for the criminal behavior in the case study?
Genetics
Biology
How do the social, behavioral, cognitive, and psychological factors you identified over the past 3
weeks interact with the genetic and biological factors listed above to create a cumulative effect on
the criminal behavior in the case study?
Support your response with specific examples from the case study, theories from the Learning
Resources, and relevant professional experience.
Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check
your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area.
1. To submit your completed assignment, save your Assignment as
WK4Assgn_LastName_Firstinitial
2. Then, click on Start Assignment near the top of the page.
3. Next, click on Upload File and select Submit Assignment for review.
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
BY DAY 7
SUBMISSION INFORMATION
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CRJS_4102_Week4_Assignment_Rubric
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Criteria Ratings Pts
Explain how
genetics
accounts for
the criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
30 pts
Explain how
biology
accounts for
the criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
30 pts
Explain how
social,
behavioral,
cognitive,
and
psychological
factors
interact with
genetic and
biological
factors to
create a
cumulative
effect on the
criminal
behavior in
the case
study.
35 pts
Format and
writing
18 pts
30 to >26.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
26 to >20.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
20 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
30 to >26.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
26 to >20.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
20 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
35 to >30.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
This component is fully
addressed and logically
presented.
30 to >24.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
This component is
addressed. Further
development would
strengthen this
component.
24 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
This component is not
present or not clearly
addressed.
18 to >15.6 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
Any spelling, grammar,
and/or punctuation
15.6 to >12.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
Submission contains few
spelling, grammar, and/or
12 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
Submission contains
multiple spelling, grammar,
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 3/4
Criteria Ratings Pts
Timeliness
12 pts
Total Points: 125
deviations from Standard
Academic English are
minor and do not affect
clear communication.
Communication
demonstrates discipline-
specific conventions, such
as stylistic choices
appropriate to an
academic audience. Work
includes multiple explicit
mentions of concepts or
ideas from the required
sources correctly cited and
formatted if specified by
the
assignment/discussion. A
reference page is included
and properly formatted.
punctuation deviations
from Standard Academic
English, OR these
deviations do not affect
clear communication.
Work includes one or more
explicit mentions of a
concept or idea from the
required sources if
specified by the
assignment/discussion’s
directions and an attempt
at citing the source has
been made. A reference
page is included.
and/or punctuation
deviations from Standard
Academic English,
affecting clear
communication. Work
does not include any
explicit mention of
concepts or ideas from the
required sources, OR it
contains one or more
explicit mention of a
concept or idea from the
required sources, if
specified by the
assignment/discussion’s
directions, but without any
attempt at citing the
source. A reference page
is not included.
12 to >10.0 pts
Exemplary (Exceeds
expectations)
The assignment is
submitted according to
posted due dates and
times or late with prior
consent from the
instructor.
10 to >8.0 pts
Proficient (Meets
expectations)
The assignment is
submitted within the
allowed time.
8 to >0 pts
Developing (Does not
fully meet expectations)
The assignment is not
submitted on time.
10/20/26, 3:02 PM Week 4: Assignment
https://waldenu.instructure.com/courses/249276/assignments/3611955#submit 4/4
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