The role of chromosomes and hormones - AO1 Flashcards
1
Q
What are chromosomes?
A
Made from DNA
There are 46 chromosomes that are arranged into 23 pairs
The 23rd pair determines the biological sex
Ovary = X
Sperm = Y
2
Q
What is SRY?
A
A gene that is carried by the Y chromosome and it causes testes to be born and produces androgens
3
Q
What is the role of hormones?
A
In the womb, hormones act upon brain development and cause development of the reproductive organs
Males and females produce many of the same hormones but in different concentrations
4
Q
What is the role of testosterone?
A
- Male hormone but there are small quantities in females
- High levels are linked to agression because it is adaptive (evolutionary explanation)
- Allows males to compete for fertile female
- Controls the development of the male sex organs during foetal development
5
Q
What is the role of oestrogen?
A
- Female hormone that determines female sexual characteristic and menstruation
- Causes some women to experience heightened emotions and irritability during their menstrual cycle (PMS)
- Has been used in criminal cases
6
Q
A
7
Q
What is the role of oxytocin?
A
- Stimulates lactation making it possible for mothers to breastfeed their children
- Reduces stress hormone, cortisol, and facilitates bonding
- Released during labour and after childbirth
- Men produce less than women, fuelling the stereotype that men are less interested in relationship
