Atypical Chromosome Patterns

Question 1

Klinefelter’s (general)

Answer 1

• affected 1 in 750 males
• extra X chromosome
• is less noticeable and is usually identified during a routine medical check.

Question 2

Klinefelter’s (physical characteristics)

Answer 2

• reduced body hair
• develops small breasts at puberty
  -long, gangly limbs

Question 3

Klinefelter’s (psychological characteristics)

Answer 3

• poor language skills/reading ability
• poor memory
• low sex drive
• passive and shy

Question 4

Turner’s (general)

Answer 4

• affects 1 in 5000 females
• missing X chromosome (45 in total)
• noticeable from birth

Question 5

Turners (physical characteristics)

Answer 5

• broad chest
• webbed neck
• shorter than average
• physically immature

Question 6

Turners (Psychological)

Answer 6

• above average reading ability
• poor ability in spatial, visual and math tasks
• socially immature (difficulty fitting in)

Question 7

AO3 (positives)

Answer 7

+ comparing typical and atypical sex chromosome patterns develops our understanding of biology and how it has influenced people (nature). This develops our understanding of the impact that nature has on sex and gender differences in people.

+ this research has led to earlier identification of people with the syndrome’s which has led to the development of treatments/methods to thrive. Those were identified as having atypical chromates patterns in childhood had significant benefits to those identified in adulthood (improved quality of life as these conditions can affect people psychologically (ie. SEN support).

Question 8

AO3 (negatives)

Answer 8

• social immaturity can be environmental influence rather than biological e.g girls with turner’s may become socially isolated during puberty. (Cannot assume it’s due to nature)
• all research for kleinfelters is based on 33% of men with the condition as many are never identified – therefore it is not representative.