Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns

Question 1

What is Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 1

• People born with sex chromosomes XXY are said to have Klinefelter’s syndrome.
• The individual is biologically male yet also has some physical traits which are associated more with females such as softer body contours, some breast development, longer arms and reduced body hair
• The individual is also likely to have poorer language skills, struggle with tasks involving memory or problem solving, be more passive or shy and have limited sexual interest

Question 2

What is Turner’s syndrome?

Answer 2

• People born with the single sex chromosome XO are said to have Turner’s syndrome.
• The individual is biologically female, however their bodies never seems to properly mature; they are likely to have broader chests with little-to-no breast development, no menstrual cycle, and a lower waist-to-hip ratio.
• They are likely to have increased reading ability, however their spatial, mathematical and memory skills are often worse. People with Turner’s syndrome often tend to be socially immature and have trouble fitting in.

Question 3

To what extend is scientific understanding of atypical sex chromosome patterns useful?

Answer 3

(+)Since these patterns cause psychological/behavioural differences in an individual, this supports the idea that genetics can influence behaviour as well as physical traits; contributing to the nature/nurture debate.

(-)It is possible that these behavioural differences are actually due to how their physical differences impact their experiences. For example, a girl with Turner’s syndrome may be more likely to be treated like a child and so they are more likely to act like one.

(+)Since these patterns cause certain learning and social difficulties, improved research can help to diagnose these syndromes earlier, meaning their needs can be better accommodated for.

(-)Since they often go un-diagnosed, the individuals involved into research of Klinefelter’s and Turner’s syndromes may not be truly representative of the total population.

(-)It can be difficult to asses weather the psychological/behavioural “differences” are actually significant, since there is no set standard for how a people are supposed to act.