Evaluation of the role of atypical chromosomes as an
explanation for gender
S
Herlihy et al (2011): Found that those who were diagnosed and treated early had significant benefits
over childhood than those who were diagnosed and treated in adulthood. This means that raising
awareness can help people with such conditions.
P Raising awareness: This can help to reduce stigma and can lead to people with these conditions having a
more positive self esteem. Gender dysphoria affects 8.5%-20% who have disorders of sex development.
More people being aware of this would allow people who are intersex to better accept themselves.
I
Supported by biological approach
Contradicts social learning theory and behaviourism
A
C
✘ Environmental: It’s possible that behaviours result from environmental influences. E.g. males with
Klinefelter’s syndrome will tend to be shorter and have underdeveloped genitals, which can really
impact their confidence, body image and the way others see them. It can make them feel less
E “masculine” which is hard when you are young. This in turn can make a boy with Klinefelter’s syndrome
quieter and passive.
explanation for gender
S
Herlihy et al (2011): Found that those who were diagnosed and treated early had significant benefits
over childhood than those who were diagnosed and treated in adulthood. This means that raising
awareness can help people with such conditions.
P Raising awareness: This can help to reduce stigma and can lead to people with these conditions having a
more positive self esteem. Gender dysphoria affects 8.5%-20% who have disorders of sex development.
More people being aware of this would allow people who are intersex to better accept themselves.
I
Supported by biological approach
Contradicts social learning theory and behaviourism
A
C
✘ Environmental: It’s possible that behaviours result from environmental influences. E.g. males with
Klinefelter’s syndrome will tend to be shorter and have underdeveloped genitals, which can really
impact their confidence, body image and the way others see them. It can make them feel less
E “masculine” which is hard when you are young. This in turn can make a boy with Klinefelter’s syndrome
quieter and passive.
