PSYC 342 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Sexual Dimorphism, Xist (Gene), Gender Role

• School: McGill University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 342
• Professor: Annie Duschesne

Document Summary

Lecture 9 - early androgens and sexually dimorphic behaviours and attitudes. Sexual differentiation works along a balance between male and female characteristics with pro-differentiation (sry gene) and pro-similarity/compensation factors (xist gene) Individuals can be classi ed as intersex when chromosomal, reproductive and/or sexual anatomy is within the spectrum of a typical male and female. Genetic mutations that modify individuals" hormonal milieus or hormonal reactivity. Affects individuals" reproductive system and/or 10 & 20 sexual characteristics. Also associated with difference in sexually dimorphic behaviour. Karyotype variations leading to a deprivation or excess in sex chromosomes. Global behavioural/psychological effects (i. e. communication, language, social cognition, etc. ) Personality (aggression, empathy), social behaviours (interest in babies) and cognitive abilities (spatial, motor and verbal abilities) show weak associations in cah women. Activities and interests (toy preferences, play activities, hobbies/leisure interests, occupational interests and choices) and sexuality (sexual orientation and behaviour) show consistent results in cah women.