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Y chromosome

the sex chromosome that is responsible for determining maleness in humans and other mammals. The body cells of normal males possess one Y chromosome and one X chromosome (XY). The Y chromosome is much smaller than the X chromosome and is thought to carry just a handful of functioning genes. Hence, males are far more susceptible to sex-linked diseases than females, because the Y chromosome lacks the alleles to counteract any defective genes carried on the X chromosome.

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Psychology term of the day

January 19th 2025

novelty seeking

novelty seeking

1. a personality trait characterized by a strong interest in having new experiences; it is often associated with risk-taking behavior, and hence the term may be used synonymously with sensation seeking. It is also increasingly the preferred term for neophilia.

2. see Cloninger’s psychobiological model of personality; Temperament and Character Inventory.