Atypical chromosomes Flashcards
How many people does Klinefelter’s (XXY) affect?
1/600
Name 3 physical characteristics of klinefelters.
- Breast development (gynaecomastia)
- Rounded body contours
- Underdeveloped genitals
Name 3 psychological characteristics of Klinefelters.
- Problems with executive functions like memory and problem-solving
- Poor language and reading ability
- Passive and shy
How many people does Turner’s (XO) affect?
1/5000
Name 3 physical characteristics of Turner’s.
- No menstrual cycle (amenorrhoea) so infertile
- Broad shield chest
- Webbed neck
Name 3 psychological characteristics of Turner’s.
- Higher than average reading ability
- Lack in spatial and visual memory and maths
- Socially immature
What is the issue with leaping to the conclusion that atypical differences in behaviour is purely due to differences at a biological level?
Relationship between atypical chromosomal patterns and behaviours seen in these individuals is not causal. Treatment of these individuals - like girls with Turner’s who may be treated immaturely by adults may lead to their ‘immaturity’.
Who studied the effects of early diagnosis and its benefits on individuals with klinefelter’s?
Herlihy et al.
Australian study on 87 men. Better management of symptoms compared to later adult diagnosis.
Who carried out a report on how prospective / longitudinal studies paint a more accurate picture of individuals with atypical chromosomes?
Boada et al.
Reported prospective studies on those with XXY chromosomes are more accurate as showed they did not experience significant problems and succeeded academically. Means typical assumption is exaggerated.
What is the benefits of individuals knowing they have either syndrome?
- Helps them understand why they appear and act differently from other children of the same age
- May be liberating and means the child is less likely to blame themselves
- Earlier access to medical and psychological support
- Children can receive information about the likely prognosis of their syndrome helping them and their parents plan for the future
What is the negatives of individuals knowing they have either syndrome?
- Avoids a self-fulfilling prophecy – knowing you have the syndrome creates self-expectations of what their capabilities are
- Early diagnosis may have a significant effect on a child’s self-concept
- For instance, a child diagnosed with Klinefelter’s may expect to have difficulties with language comprehension reducing their motivation levels at school
