If a positive correlation is found between aggressive behaviour in adopted children and aggressive behaviour in their biological parents, a genetic effect is implied. If a positive correlation is found between the adoptee’s aggressive behaviour and the rearing family – environment
factor is implied. A study of over 14,000 adoptions in Denmark found that a significant number of adopted boys with criminal convictions had biological parents (particularly fathers) with criminal convictions (Hutchings and Mednick) this provides evidence for a genetic effect.
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