Role of chromosomes and hormones

Question 1

Define chromosomes

Answer 1

Made from DNA in nucleus of cells, carry info on genes. 23 pairs.

Question 2

What is the chromosomal structure for men and women?

Answer 2

Women- XX. Men- XY.

Question 3

Define hormones

Answer 3

substance circulates in blood, affects target organs. Help develop sex differences

Question 4

Define testosterone

Answer 4

hormone, produced mainly male testes. Controls development of male sex organs. Linked to aggression.

Question 5

Define oestrogen

Answer 5

female hormone, menstrual cycle and reproductive system.

Question 6

Define premenstrual tension

Answer 6

women experience heightened emotion during menstrual cycle, can become diagnosable disorder.

Question 7

Define oxytocin

Answer 7

hormone causes contraction of uterus during labour, stimulates lactation, facilitates bonding (stereotype men less affectionate produce it less).

Question 8

What do chromosomes do?

Answer 8

23rd pair determines sex.

Question 9

Strength of the role of chromosomes and hormones, in terms of supportive evidence for role of sex hormones in gender development.

Answer 9

Male hypogonadism caused by mans testes failing to produce normal testosterone lvls.

Wang et al gave 227 hypogonadal men testosterone therapy for 180 days.
Changes in body, sex function monitored.
• Testosterone replacement improved sexual function, mood, muscle strength.
• Shows testosterone influences male sexual arousal.

Question 10

Counterpoint to supportive evidence for role of sex hormones in gender development.

Answer 10

O’Connor- double-blind placebo study, increased testosterone lvl in men, no significant increases in sexual function.

Question 11

Limitation of bio accounts, in terms of ignoring social factors

Answer 11

Hofstede et al- global gender roles due to social factors not bio.
Individualist cultures more masculine than collectivist.
Social factors shape gender behaviour/ attitudes more than bio.