Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns

• Klinefelter Syndrome

  Occurs when a male inherits an extra X chromosome (XXY). The individual is often unaware of it as they develop a mostly male appearance.
• What are some physical characteristics of Klinefelters Syndrome?

  • Soft Face
  • Development of Breasts
  • Wide hips
• What are psychological characteristics of Klinefelters Syndrome?

  • Clumsiness
  • Slower Speech
  • Bad Coordination
• Turners Syndrome

  Occurs when a female only inherits one X chromosome (X0)
• What are the physical characteristics of Turners Syndrome?

  • Low hairline
  • Broad chest
  • Wider shoulders
• What are the psychological characteristics of Turners Syndrome?

  • Advanced reading skills
  • Anxiety and depression
• Strengths of research into atypical sex chromosome patterns:

  • Lead to important practical applications. For example, greater public awareness of people with atypical sex categories and further research into the disorders.
  • Understanding how atypical sex chromosome patterns can affect psychological and physical characteristics can help to decide how much of an influence chromosomes have on gender behaviour in typical sex.
• A limitation of research into atypical sex chromosome patters is that some psychologists argue that we cannot draw conclusions about the influence of chromosomes by studying people with atypical sex. This is because atypical chromosomes can cause atypical appearances, this may lead to these individuals being treated differently whic could influence their gender behaviour.