Psychosocial Functioning of Individuals with Sex Chromosome Abnormalities

Abstract

This chapter reviews the extant literature pertaining to the psychosocial functioning of individuals who have sex chromosome abnormalities (SCA). Psychosocial research has generally been concerned with three relatively broad domains: gender identity and sexual functioning, psycho-pathology, and personality characteristics. The most extensive portion of the chapter contains reviews of these topics as they relate to each of the major SCA karyotypes. When appropriate, we have attempted to briefly discuss the early findings emanating primarily from studies of adults found in mental hospitals and penal institutions. Next, we summarize the results of more recent research with children, adolescents, and adults. Where available, we present the latest evidence that has emerged from prospective, longitudinal studies of unselected SCA individuals identified through screening of large newborn populations. This is followed by a discussion of methodological considerations and suggestions for future directions in research.