Which study is associated with the XYY chromosome and criminality?

• A. Twin Studies
• B. Jacobs XYY Study
• C. Adoption Studies
• D. Individualistic Theories

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how genetics, specifically an XYY male chromosome pattern, has been studied in relation to criminal behaviour. The Jacobs XYY study is the classic piece that directly investigates whether males with an extra Y chromosome are overrepresented in criminal populations. By examining prisoners and comparing them to the general male population, it highlighted a potential link between XYY and criminality, which is why it’s the study most closely associated with this topic.

Other options describe different research approaches: twin studies explore heritability by comparing identical and fraternal twins; adoption studies separate genetic and environmental factors; and individualistic theories explain crime through personal characteristics rather than biology. None of these focus on the XYY chromosome, so they don’t capture the specific association in question.