IELTS Band 9 Essay About people think that criminal behavior has genetic causes
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Sample Answer (Band 9)
Some people think that criminal behavior has genetic causes. others believe that it is circumstances that lead people to commit a crime.
Give your opinion.
The debate surrounding the origins of criminal behavior is complex, with some attributing it to genetic predispositions and others arguing that environmental circumstances play a decisive role. In my opinion, while genetics may contribute to certain tendencies, it is predominantly the environment that shapes an individual’s propensity to commit crimes.
Proponents of the genetic explanation suggest that hereditary factors can influence personality traits, such as aggression or impulsivity, which may increase the likelihood of criminal acts. Research has shown that individuals with certain genetic markers, like a variation in the MAOA gene, are statistically more likely to exhibit violent behavior. However, genetics alone cannot account for the multifaceted nature of criminality. For instance, not all individuals with these genetic traits become offenders, suggesting that other factors, such as upbringing and societal influences, are pivotal.
On the other hand, environmental factors play a far more substantial role in shaping behavior. Poverty, lack of education, and exposure to violence during formative years significantly increase the risk of engaging in unlawful activities. For example, children raised in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas often face limited opportunities, which may lead to desperation and, ultimately, criminal actions. Moreover, peer influence and the absence of strong familial support systems can further exacerbate this issue.
While genetics may predispose some individuals to certain behaviors, the environment provides the context in which such tendencies are either mitigated or amplified. For example, a person with a genetic inclination towards aggression may never engage in crime if they grow up in a supportive, nurturing environment. Conversely, even those without such genetic traits may turn to crime due to adverse circumstances.
In conclusion, although genetic factors may have some influence on an individual’s behavior, it is the environment that plays a more definitive role in determining criminality. Addressing issues such as poverty, education, and social support systems is, therefore, crucial in reducing crime rates. A balanced approach that considers both genetic and environmental influences can help create more effective strategies to combat criminal behavior.
Five Academic Words in the sample of people think that criminal behavior has genetic causes
- Predisposition /ˌpriː.dɪs.pəˈzɪʃ.ən/
- Sentence: The predisposition to aggression is often influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
- Multifaceted /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/
- Sentence: The issue of criminality is multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive approach to address its root causes.
- Substantial /səbˈstæn.ʃəl/
- Sentence: A substantial number of studies highlight the impact of socioeconomic conditions on criminal behavior.
- Amplify /ˈæm.plɪ.faɪ/
- Sentence: Adverse circumstances can amplify the risk of criminal behavior in vulnerable populations.
- Mitigate /ˈmɪt.ɪ.ɡeɪt/
- Sentence: Policies aimed at improving education and employment opportunities can mitigate the likelihood of crime.
Five Advanced Grammar Structures and Their Contributions
- Complex Sentences
- Example: “While genetics may predispose some individuals to certain behaviors, the environment provides the context in which such tendencies are either mitigated or amplified.”
- Contribution: Shows the ability to link contrasting ideas logically, enhancing coherence.
- Passive Voice
- Example: “Research has shown that individuals with certain genetic markers are statistically more likely to exhibit violent behavior.”
- Contribution: Demonstrates variety in sentence structures and emphasizes the findings rather than the researchers.
- Conditional Sentences
- Example: “If they grow up in a supportive, nurturing environment, a person with a genetic inclination towards aggression may never engage in crime.”
- Contribution: Highlights the writer’s ability to discuss hypothetical scenarios effectively.
- Noun Phrases with Modifiers
- Example: “Poverty, lack of education, and exposure to violence during formative years significantly increase the risk of engaging in unlawful activities.”
- Contribution: Adds precision and depth to the explanation, showing advanced writing skills.
Use of “For instance” and “Such as” for Examples
- Example: “For instance, not all individuals with these genetic traits become offenders, suggesting that other factors, such as upbringing and societal influences, are pivotal.”
- Contribution: Illustrates the ability to provide clear and relevant examples, making arguments more persuasive.
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