xyy syndrome - biological explanation

Question 1

xyy syndrome

Answer 1

• XYY syndrome is a genetic condition found in males only (an extra y chromosome)
• about 1 in 1,000 boys have it

Question 2

physical traits of those with xyy syndrome:

Answer 2

• taller than the average height
• low muscle tone / muscle weakness
• very curved pinky finger (clinodactyl)
• widely spaced eyes (hypertelorism)

Question 3

behavioural symptoms of those with xyy syndrome

Answer 3

• reading problems
• delayed developed social language and learning skills
• mild delay in coordination
• behavioural problems -> temper tantrums, ADHD, autism, deviant behaviour, impulsivity

Question 4

what are rare symptoms for someone with xyy syndrome?

Answer 4

• increased tescular size
• increased risk of asthma and seizures

Question 5

can xyy syndrome be treated?

Answer 5

• treatments are there to help with specific symptoms; early intervention servies, regular doctor visits, counselling, educational support services
• no cure

Question 6

why’s it hard to demonstrate xyy causes criminal syndrome?

Answer 6

• we can’t be certain that xyy syndrome CAUSES criminal behaviour despite how correlating the factors are
• a small sample of men have it (1 in 1,000) making it very rare = studies using such a small sample may lead to bias or inconclusive results, reducing generalisability

Question 7

in what way is xyy associated with criminal behaviour?

Answer 7

the chromosomal syndrome acts on the brain’s limbic system (responsible for regulating a man’s most primitive drives including his impulses towards violence) and somehow helps triigger violent, criminal acts