Neurocriminology

High school (ages 12+)
Human Body

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/neurocriminology

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. How big is Neurocriminology?Neuroscience, criminology, psychology, genetics, forensic science
2. What is the scientific discipline?An emerging sub-discipline of biocriminology and criminology
3. What is the core methodology?Applies brain imaging techniques (fMRI, PET, EEG) and neuroscience principles
4. Why do scientists look at brains when studying crime?Scientists think brain differences can affect decision‑making, impulse control, empathy, and moral thinking, which can influence criminal behavior.
5. How can brain imaging help people who might act badly?It can find brain patterns that show higher risk for impulsive or aggressive actions, so programs can help those people before they get into trouble.

Neuroscience: The scientific study of the nervous system, particularly the brain and its functions.
Criminology: The scientific study of crime, its causes, control, and the legal system.
Brain Imaging: Techniques that produce images of the brain's structure or function, such as fMRI or PET scans.
Prefrontal Cortex (PFC): The part of the brain's frontal lobe responsible for complex cognitive behavior and executive functions.