Turner’s syndrome  women are at risk of psychological dysfunction relating to social, behavioural and educational factors. Psychological care is essential and should be directed at reinforcing  and supporting the individuals self esteem and assisting Turner’s syndrome  women to remain in the mainstream of social, educational and occupational life.

Psychological review, education, career planning and involvement of Turner’s syndrome support groups are all useful. Specific issues are discussed below. 

Psychosexual development

Girls with Turner’s syndrome have female gender identification. Dating and initiation of sexual activity may be delayed/infrequent; a consequence of genetic, hormonal and behavioural factors. Sex education and sex therapy are important.

Psychosocial development

Short stature and delayed sexual development are key factors influencing psychosocial development. A personality style characterised by limited emotional arousal, high tolerance for adversity, unassertiveness and overcompliance has been recognised in women with Turner’s syndrome. Immaturity, anxiety and difficulties with peer relationships are important issues.

Cognitive and academic performance

Women with Turner’s syndrome  demonstrate some specific neuropsychological deficits including visual-spatial organisation (eg difficulty in driving), social cognition (eg failure to appreciate subtle social cues), problems with nonverbal problem solving (eg mathematics), and psychomotor deficits (eg clumsiness). Mental retardation is associated with the small ring X chromosome only.

Content created June 04, 2007