This post concerns the neuroanatomical/psychological basis of criminal behavior.
I'll share research to demonstrate how complex behavior is and the neurological underpinnings which may contribute to criminal activity.
This first study follows reports of a few patients with FTD(frontotemporal dementia)
The specific areas include:
vmPFC (ventromedial prefrontal cortex)
Orbitofrontal cortex
Anterior temporal regions
The vmPFC is of import as lesions within this area can affect moral judgment. Paradoxically the patient may understand that their actions are wrong - and yet be unable to stop themselves from going through with the actions.
I'll post other interesting research in the comments over the coming weeks.
Article title: The Unique Predisposition to Criminal Violations in Frontotemporal Dementia
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3139561/
In further response to the post above - here is another look at how bvFTD can impact behaviour and lead to criminality.
In bvFTD patients suffer with a reduced empathy and a general lack of self-awareness. The paper provided shows that in up to 54% of those with bvFTD criminal behaviours occur.
Other inappropriate behaviours include sexual disinhibition, kissing and hugging strangers and telling offensive jokes. There's a rich symptomology depending on the variant.
In the context of law - if there is a recent 3-4 year history of aberrant behaviour it would be useful to consider neurological disease.
Included in the paper is a case-history of a 55-year old woman. Main symptoms included a lack of social awareness, sexual disinhibtion and a lack of empathy.
Paper title: The behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) syndrome in psychiatry
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4755931/