A new study has explored how differences between the male and female brain contribute to sex differences in violence.
Human behaviors such as violence depend on interactions in the brain between genetic and environmental factors. An individual may be more vulnerable to developing violent behaviors if they have predisposing factors and are then exposed to stress, abuse, or other triggers, especially early in life.
The study by neurobiologist Dr. Debra Niehoff described the complex and flexible biological mechanisms in the brain that lead to the development of behaviors.
These include interconnected neural networks, multiple genes, and chemical signals such as hormones and neurotransmitters, which can be modified by environmental factors.
Brain structure, function, and connectivity can all differ between men and women, affecting how they may change on exposure to stressful or abusive triggers.
The study was published in the journal Violence and Gender.