Atypical sex chromosome - AO1

Question 1

What is Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 1

Example of an atypical sex chromosome pattern

• Anatomical appearence of a male but has XXY chromosome structure
• Two thirds of people have it but they may not be aware of it

Question 2

What are physical characteristics of Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 2

• Reduced body hair
• Long gangly limbs
• Underdeveloped genitals
• Problems with co-ordination
• General clumsiness

Question 3

What are psychological characteristics of Kllinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 3

• Poorly developed language skills and reading ability
• Passive
• Shy
• May not respond well to stressful situations
• May often exhibitt executive functions (memory and problem solving)

Question 4

What is Turner’s syndrome?

Answer 4

Absence of the two allotted X chromosomes
Referred to as XO

Question 5

What are physical characteristics of Turner’s syndrome?

Answer 5

• No menstrual cycle, their ovaries do not develop and are infertile
• Broad shield chest
• Low set ears and webbed neck
• Appearance of prepubescent girls

Question 6

What are psychological characteristics of Turner’s syndrome?

Answer 6

• Higher than average reading ability
• Performance on spatial, visual memory and mathematical task is often lower than average
• Socially immature, difficulty fitting in