Emotional disorder in XYY children: four case reports

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Psychiatry
• Child Psychology
• Cytogenetics

Background:

• Study focuses on a cohort of 14 boys identified with XYY syndrome at birth.
• Investigates psychiatric referrals for four of these boys aged 7-9 years.
• Examines genetic predispositions and environmental risk factors for psychiatric disturbances.

Observation:

• Four XYY boys presented with severe behavioral issues including temper tantrums, stealing, and enuresis.
• Diagnoses ranged from mild to severe emotional disorders.
• All four boys exhibited reactive depression, indicating significant emotional distress.

Findings:

• Multifactorial risk factors for psychiatric disturbance were identified in the boys' backgrounds.
• Treatment interventions included individual and family psychotherapy.
• Two boys received antidepressant medication, and one received special educational support.

Implications:

• Short-term therapeutic outcomes for XYY boys were comparable to chromosomally normal boys.
• Highlights the importance of early identification and intervention for XYY individuals.
• Suggests that comprehensive psychiatric care can effectively manage behavioral and emotional disorders in XYY syndrome.