Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns

• Define Intersex

  When a person has both male and female sex characteristics (genitalia, hormones & chromosomes)
• What is the mix of chromosomes of someone who is Intersex

  XXY

  Some cells are XX, some are XY

  or they only have 1 X chromosome (XO)
• Describe Klinefelter Syndrome

  A genetic disorder in males characterized by an extra X chromosome (XXY chromosome pattern)

  
  

  > resulting in fertility issues, tall stature, and hypogonadism
• What are the Physical characteristics of Klinefelter's syndrome ?

  
• What are the psychological / behavioural characteristics of Klinefelter syndrome?

  • Poor language skills & reading ability
  • Passive & shy
  • Lack of interest in sexual activities
  • Don’t respond Well to stressful situation
  • Poor memory & problem solving skills
• Describe Turner’s syndrome

  a genetic disorder causing the absence of one X chromosome in biological females = 45 not 46

  -> XO chromosome patter
• Physical characteristics of Turners Syndrome

  
• Psychological / behavioural characteristics of Turner’s syndrome

  • Higher than average reading ability
  • Poor memory
  • Poor maths skills
  • Difficulty fitting in
  • Socially immature
• How do atypical chromosome patterns contribute to the nature-nurture debate in gender development?

  They help us understand psychological and behavioral differences between groups.
• What psychological difference is noted in girls with Turner's syndrome compared to those without?

  Girls with Turner's syndrome tend to have higher verbal ability and talk more.
• What does the behavior of girls with Turner's syndrome suggest about the influence of biology on gender development?

  It suggests that biological factors have a powerful effect on psychology and behavior.
• Why should caution be exercised when making conclusions based on atypical chromosome patterns?

  Because these syndromes are rare and individual differences may affect comparisons.
• What are the names of the two syndromes mentioned that are associated with atypical chromosome patterns?

  Turner's syndrome and Klinefelter's syndrome.
• What is a major benefit of studying people with atypical chromosome patterns?

  It increases understanding of the syndromes for earlier diagnosis and intervention.
• How can early diagnosis of psychological deficits improve quality of life for individuals with atypical chromosome patterns?

  By targeting psychological deficits early, interventions can be more effective.
• What environmental factors might influence the behavior of individuals with atypical chromosome patterns?

  Physical differences may lead to perceptions of immaturity, affecting treatment by others.
• Why might it be incorrect to attribute differences between individuals with and without syndromes solely to biology?

  Because environmental perceptions and treatment can also influence behavior and performance.
• Evaluation of Atypical chromosome patterns

  :) Studying atypical chromosome patterns contributes to our understanding of the nature-nurture debate in gender development

  :( Caution should be exercised when making conclusions based on limited and unusual samples

  :) Practical application in studying atypical chromosome patterns

  :( Possible environmental explanations that account for differences?