Only sperm donors with clean criminal records
Why criminal background checks matter
At Donor Network, donors need to pass a criminal background check to be approved for sperm donation.
Why?
- Genetics can play a role in criminal behaviour
- Whether you choose an ID release or non-ID release donor, you should feel comfortable about the potential future relationship between your child and their donor
How we verify a clean criminal record in the screening process
Before we approve a potential donor, they consent to us retrieving their official criminal record through the Danish police.
Doing this as part of the donor screening proces we ensure that we don't recruit any donors with a criminal background.
Is criminal behaviour heritable?
Criminal and antisocial behaviour is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental and social factors.
There’s no simple "criminal gene", but research suggests that there is a hereditary component to criminal behavior.
Twin and adoptions studies
Twin studies comparing identical and fraternal twins show genetics account for part of the variance in antisocial and criminal behaviour. Identical twins (who share 100% of their genetic material) tend to show more similar behaviors than fraternal twins (who share 50%). This suggests a genetic influence.
Adoption studies find that children of parents with a criminal history are more likely to engage in criminal behaviour themselves, even if they're raised in a different environment, further suggesting a genetic influence.
30-50% heritability
Twin studies comparing identical and fraternal twins show that the heritability of criminal behaviour is between 30 % and 50 %. This means that a significant portion of the variation in criminal behavior can be attributed to genetics, but the remaining 50-70% is influenced by environmental factors.
Genes don't determine criminal behaviour, but can influence it
While genetics can increase the risk of criminal behavior, it doesn't determine it. Many people with genetic predispositions to aggression or impulsivity do not engage in criminal activity, suggesting that choices, social factors, and interventions can alter outcomes.
Conditions like psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) are often linked to criminal behavior. Both have genetic components, with studies suggesting a hereditary aspect to personality traits like impulsivity, lack of empathy, and disregard for societal norms. However, environmental factors, especially childhood experiences, also play a crucial role in the development of these disorders.
Tell me more about...
-
Sperm donor IQ
IQ is 50-80% heritable and indicates cognitive ability, making it an important trait to consider when choosing your donor. Read about sperm donor IQ screening.
-
Fertility staff approvals
We collaborate closely with top fertility clinics. Learn more about the advantages of choosing our fertility staff approved donors.
-
How to choose a donor
Whether you're starting from scratch or stuck in the process of finding the perfect donor, try our step-by-step guide on how to choose a sperm donor.
Any other questions about using donor sperm?
Our FAQ about donor sperm provides a good overview on the most important things to consider when exploring options of fertility treatment with donor sperm.
Free Consultation
We're with you, ready to support in any way we can.
We're available Monday-Sunday 8:00-21:00 on chat, phone (+44 (0)20 7154 1042) or info@donornetwork.com
Or you can book a free fertility consultation.