Main description:

Brain and Crime, Volume 197 reviews the relation between brain function and aggressive and rule-breaking (criminal) behavior. The book's focus is on the violation of social rules and not on violation of regulations that are different in different counties. It discusses the development of this behavior from childhood into adulthood, along with the mechanisms associated with the risk for aggression and rule-breaking behavior. In addition, it explores from a behavioral level concepts like psychopathology, syndrome and concepts from law, such as crime, defendant and offender. Finally, sections explore brain function, including emotion, cognitive processes, and decision-making.

From the perspective of brain structure, the book covers brain networks and brain disorders. In genetics, the book includes the influence of genes and the mechanisms of epigenetics. All chapters are intended to provide information for use in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders, and in assessment and prevention.

Contents:

Section I. Introduction 1. Brain and Crime

Section II. Structure and Function 2. Genomics of human aggression 3. Brain networks and brain abnormalities 4. Executive function 5. Forensically relevant challenging behaviours and the genetics domain 6. Empathy and psychopathy 7. Aggression, prefrontal cortex and amygdala connectivity 8. Moral Judgement

Section III. Brain dysfunction 9. Brain trauma 10. Illicit drug use and violence 11. Effects of child maltreatment 12. Sexual offenses and the brain 13. Smoking during pregnancy 14. Psychosis and violence 15. Degeneration and aging 16. FAS

Section IV. Assessment and Treatment 17. Virtual Reality 18. Technology 19. Pharmacological Treatment

Section V. Ethics and Law A. Intervention 20. Neurolaw - challenges and limits 21. Neuroscience and criminal responsibility 22. Neurotechnology to reduce recidivism. Ethical and legal concerns