Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns Flashcards
What are atypical sex chromosome patterns
Any sex chromosome pattern that deviates from usual XX/XY formation and tends to be associated with distinct pattern of physical and psychological symptoms
What is Klinefelter’s syndrome
Biological males with anatomical appearance of male but sex chromosome structure of XXY
Physical characteristics of Klinefelter’s syndrome
Reduced body hair, some breast development, softening of body contours, long gangly limbs, undeveloped genitals
Psychological symptoms of Klinefelter’s syndrome
Poorly developed language skills and reading ability, tend to be passive and lack interest in sexual activity
What is Turner’s syndrome
Biological females with absence of one of the X chromosomes, X0 so have 45 chromosomes
Physical characteristics of Turner’s syndrome
No menstrual cycle, ovaries fail to develop (sterile), broad shield chest, low set ears, webbed neck
Psychological characteristics of Turner’s syndrome
Higher than average reading ability, lower than normal performance on spatial, visual memory and mathematical tasks, socially immature
Expand on strength that there are practical applications to understanding atypical sex chromosome patterns
-earlier and more accurate diagnosis, studies found those identified and treated for Klinefelter’s syndrome from early age had significant benefits compared to those diagnosed in adulthood
-improved outcomes for patients
Expand on limitation that characteristics may be due to other factors than chromosomes
-environmental and social influences may be responsible for behavioural differences eg social immaturity in those with Turner’s may be due to the fact they are treated immaturely, others may react to pre-pubescent appearance in a way that encourages immaturity
-wrong to assume behaviours due to nature
Expand on limitation that research includes an unusual sample
-difficult to generalise atypical individuals to wider pop
-means findings may tell us little about rest of pop, not reflective of all
