Jocelaine PresenDieu
Columbus State University
Abstract
This paper explores three aspects of Williams syndrome. Williams syndrome is a rare developmental disorder caused by the microdeletion of genes from chromosome 7q11.23 (Mervis, 2003). The microdeletion is evident in almost all individuals with Williams syndrome so is the personality characteristic. Individuals with Williams syndrome are social, easily distracted, overly friendly, have severe anxiety and have an empathetic nature (Morris & Mervis, 2000). The personality of individuals with Williams syndrome is detected at an early age and consistent through adulthood. The three aspects discussed are facial perception, self conception and social behavior. Each aspect is important for understanding an individual with Williams syndrome in a holistic manner. The evidence presented in the paper all overlap and can be a direct product of individuals with Williams syndrome personality. The evidence presented supports further research in this field. Our hope is that further research continues to be done in order to expound upon the theorized genetic basis. Keywords: Williams syndrome, social behavior, facial perception, self conception
Self Conception, Facial Perception, and Social Behavior in People with Williams Syndrome
Williams syndrome is agreed upon by researchers to be a rare developmental disorder coupled with mild to moderate mental deficiency or learning inability (Mervis, 2003). Williams Syndrome only occurs in 1 of every 20,000 births (Morris & Mervis, 2000). The first reports of Williams syndrome came from Great Britain following World War II (Mervis & Morris). Williams syndrome is unique compared to other developmental disorders due to a recurrent pattern of facial characteristics. This disorder has a biological origin. Williams syndrome involve presynaptic cytoskeletal protein (PCLO).
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