Gender 2

Question 1

Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns - What is an atypical sex chromosome pattern?

Answer 1

• Any sex chromosome pattern that deviates from the usual XX / XY formation and which tends to be associated with a distinct pattern of physical and psychological symptoms.

Question 2

Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns - What is Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 2

• A syndrome affecting males in which an individual’s genotype has an extra X chromosome (XXY).
• It is characterised by a tall thin physique, small infertile testes and enlarged breasts.
• 1 in 500-1000 people.
• 2/3 of people who have it, not aware.

Question 3

Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns - What are the physical characteristics of Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 3

• Reduced body hair.
• Some breast development.
• Softening or rounding of body contours.
• Long gangly limbs.
• Underdevelopment of genitals.
• Co-ordination and general clumsiness.

Question 4

Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns - What are the psychological characteristics of Klinefelter’s syndrome?

Answer 4

• Poorly developed language skills and reading ability.
• Sufferers tend to be shy and lack interest in sexual activity.
• Don’t respond well to stressful situations.
• Problems with memory and problem solving.

Question 5

Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns - What is Turner’s syndrome?

Answer 5

• A chromosomal disorder in which affected women have only one X chromosome (XO), causing developmental abnormalities and infertility.
• 1 in 5000 females.
• 45 chromosomes not 46.

Question 6

Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns - What are the physical characteristics of Turner’s syndrome?

Answer 6

• Do not have a menstrual cycle, ovaries fail to develop.
• Do not develop breasts at puberty and have a ‘broad’ chest.
• Low set ears and a ‘webbed’ neck.
• High waist-hip ratio, hips not much bigger than the waist.
• Retain appearance of pre-pubescent girls.

Question 7

Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns - What are the psychological characteristics of Turner’s syndrome?

Answer 7

• Higher than average reading ability.
• Performance on spatial, visual memory and mathematical skills lower than normal.
• Socially immature, trouble relating to peers and difficulty fitting in.