Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns Flashcards
What is Klinefelter’s syndrome?
Occurs in between 1 in 500 and in in 1000 people. Individuals who have this are biological males - with male anatomy - and an additional chromosome. Their chromosome structure is XXY, and around 2/3 of people with this disorder do not know about it.
What are the physical characteristics of Klinefelter’s syndrome?
Reduced body hair, some breast development, and a rounding of body contours. Individuals tend to have long gangly limbs, underdeveloped genitals and issues with co-ordination.
What are the psychological characteristics of Klinefelter’s syndrome?
Poorly developed language skills and reading ability. They tend to be passive, shy and uninterested in sexual activity. Many tend not to respond well to stressful situations and may exhibit problems with ‘executive functions’ such as memory or problem solving.
What is Turner’s syndrome?
1 in 5000 individuals have it, caused by an absence of one of the X chromosomes. X0 chromosomal pattern - so one less chromosome.
What are the physical characteristics of Turner’s syndrome?
Do not have a menstrual cycle or ovaries. Do not develop breasts. Associated with a webbed neck and a high waist-to-hip ratio. Adults with this are physical immature and retain the appearance of pre-pubescent girls.
What are the psychological characteristics of Turner’s syndrome?
Higher than average reading ability, but performance on spatial, visual memory and mathematical tasks is lower. They tend to be socially immature also.
What is the strength - contribution to the nature/nurture debate?
By comparing these individuals to chromosome-typical individuals it becomes possible to see psychological and behavioural differences between the groups. IT is logical to infer that this is due to a genetic basis and are a direct result of the abnormal chromosomal structure.
What is the limitation - Environment explanations
The relationship between the chromosomal abnormalities and differences in behaviour are not causal. It may be that the environment and social influences are more responsible for the behavioural differences. For example, it may be that people shun those with Turners due to their difference to usual, so they become socially immature as a result.
What is the strength - practical application
Continued research into this leads to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of these syndromes as well as more positive outcomes in future - gene counselling. This suggests that increased awareness may have practical application.
