The potential role of the gut-brain axis in criminal behavior

• In Event: The Heart, the Brain and the Gut: Different Biological Perspectives on Behavior

Abstract

There is mounting evidence of the impact that the gut microbiome has on brain activity and behavior, both from animal studies and human research. The most substantive and rigorous studies involve the impact of the gut-brain axis during the early childhood development, as well as its connection with mental health processes and its effects on social and affective behavior. To our knowledge, the gut-brain axis has never been linked to criminal behavior before. We synthesize relevant research and draw implications for criminal and aggressive behavior. Existing evidence is interpreted within the theoretical framework of biosocial criminology and other, more traditional, criminological theories. We propose a research agenda to address the most important currently unanswered questions. Finally, we derive implications of this research for criminal justice policy and practice – most notably, regarding dietary changes that are likely to aid in crime and recidivism prevention efforts.

Authors

• Maria Tcherni-Buzzeo, University of New Haven

• Liza Cornet, University of Twente