Atypical Chromosomal Patterns

• What is the prevalence of Klinefelter's Syndrome in males?

  1 in 500 to 1 in 1000
• What is the sex chromosomal composition of Klinefelter's Syndrome?

  XXY
• What are the physical characteristics of Klinefelter's Syndrome?

  • Underdeveloped genitals
  • Reduced body hair
  • Softening or rounding of body contours
  • Problems with coordination
  • Long "gangly" limbs
• What are the psychological characteristics of Klinefelter's Syndrome?

  • Poorly developed language and reading skills
  • Tendency to be shy
  • Lack of interest in sexual activity
  • Difficulty dealing with stress
  • Difficulty with executive functions
• What is the primary treatment for Klinefelter's Syndrome?

  Testosterone replacement therapy
• How does testosterone replacement therapy help Klinefelter's patients?

  It increases hormone levels to masculinise
• What is the prevalence of Turner's Syndrome in biological females?

  1 in 2000
• What is the sex chromosomal composition of Turner's Syndrome?

  XO
• What are the physical characteristics of Turner's Syndrome?

  • Womb and genitals but no functioning ovaries
  • No menstrual cycle
  • No breast development at puberty
  • Low set ears and "webbed" neck
  • Physically immature with less curved physique
• What are the psychological characteristics of Turner's Syndrome?

  • Higher than average reading ability
  • Lower performance on spatial and memory tasks
  • Lower mathematical performance
  • Often socially immature
• What is the primary treatment for Turner's Syndrome?

  Oestrogen replacement therapy
• How does oestrogen replacement therapy help Turner's patients?

  It helps with breast growth during puberty
• What can we learn about gender from Klinefelter's and Turner's Syndromes?

  • Insights into nature-nurture of gender development
  • Turner's girls show higher verbal ability
  • Biological basis related to chromosomal structure
  • Innate nature influences psychology and behavior
  • Environmental and social influences may also play a role