atypical sex chromosome patterns

Question 1

explain Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 1

• only affects males
• most males have XY but person with this has XXY
• affects 1 in 500/1000

Question 2

explain the physical characteristics of Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 2

-reduced body hair 
some breast development 
-long limbs
-underdeveloped genitals 
-clumsy

Question 3

explain the psychological characteristics of Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 3

• linked to poorly developed language skills+reading
• lack of interest in sexual activity
• shy
• doesn’t respond well to stress
• problems with memory

Question 4

explain Turners syndrome?

Answer 4

• only affects women
• have 1 X chromosome = XO
• 45 chromosomes instead of 46

Question 5

explain the physical characteristics Turners syndrome?

Answer 5

• no menstrual cycle
• shorter than average
• sterile
• no breasts= shield chest
• webbed neck
• looks like a pre-pubecent girl

Question 6

explain the psychological characteristics Turners syndrome?

Answer 6

• have trouble fitting in
• higher than average reading ability
• socially immature
• mathmatical performance lower than normal.

Question 7

evaluate environmental explanations?

Answer 7

• WEAKNESS
• it may be environment that is to blame for their behavioural differences
• social immaturity in turners may be a result of them being treated immaturely as they look like children
• therefore development of psychological problems may be due to external factors rather than chromosomal abnormalities

Question 8

evaluate practical application?

Answer 8

• STRENGTH
• continued research into atypical sex chromosome patterns can lead to earlier more accurate diagnosis of these syndromes
• study into 90 people with Klinefelter’s syndrome found that those treated and identified as a child had significant benefits compared tot hose diagnosed in adulthood