Atypical Sex Chromosome Patterns

Question 1

What is Klinefelter’s Syndrome?

Answer 1

A genetic condition affecting males, characterized by an extra X chromosome (XXY instead of XY).

Affects 1 in 1000 males.

Question 2

What are the physical characteristics of Klinefelter’s Syndrome?

Answer 2

Breast development (gynecomastia), lack of facial hair, long limbs, and underdeveloped testes.

Question 3

What are the psychological characteristics of Klinefelter’s Syndrome?

Answer 3

Passive, shy temperament, poor language and reading skills, and more likely to be introverted or socially anxious.

Question 4

What is Turner’s Syndrome?

Answer 4

A genetic condition affecting females, characterized by having only one X chromosome (XO instead of XX).

Affects 1 in 5000 females.

Question 5

What are the physical characteristics of Turner’s Syndrome?

Answer 5

Short stature, webbed neck, no menstrual cycle, and underdeveloped ovaries.

Question 6

What are the psychological characteristics of Turner’s Syndrome?

Answer 6

Poor spatial/mathematical skills, good verbal/language skills, and difficulty with peer relationships and social interactions.

Question 7

What is a strength of research into atypical sex chromosome patterns?

Answer 7

Supports the biological role of chromosomes in sex/gender development by correlating chromosomal differences with physical and psychological traits.

Question 8

What is a limitation of research into atypical sex chromosome patterns?

Answer 8

Confounding environmental variables may influence behavioral traits, suggesting that observed traits could be shaped by nurture, not just nature.

Question 9

What is another limitation of research into atypical sex chromosome patterns?

Answer 9

Small sample sizes due to the rarity of conditions like Klinefelter’s and Turner’s Syndrome limit generalisability and external validity.