Men's Health

Home treatment for Klinefelter syndrome is directed at understanding your son's emotional, physical, behavioral, and learning needs. If your son has been diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome:

• Recognize your feelings. It is natural for parents to feel that they have done something to cause Klinefelter syndrome. But this condition is a genetic disorder and was beyond anyone's control. Allow yourself time to deal with your feelings and talk with your son's doctor about your concerns.
• Educate yourself about the disorder. The common problem for parents is fear of the unknown. Educating yourself will help you learn how to help your son.
• Support your son. Provide education appropriate for his age about Klinefelter syndrome and give him the emotional support and encouragement he needs. Remind him that most men who have Klinefelter syndrome go through life with few problems.
• Be actively involved in your son's care. Talk with your doctor about his treatment. If counseling for behavioral problems is needed, or if your son has difficulty reading or has poor verbal skills, get help from qualified professionals who have experience working with boys who have Klinefelter syndrome.
• Encourage your son to take part in activities to improve his physical motor skills, such as karate, soccer, basketball, baseball, or swimming. For more information, see the topic Physical Activity for Children and Teens.
• Work with your son's teachers, principal, and school administrators.
  • Contact his teachers on a regular basis to compare how he is doing at home and at school.
  • When appropriate, let your son be present for talks with his teachers. Use brief notes, telephone calls, and meetings to identify and solve problems.
  • Provide articles and pamphlets to your son's teachers and school principal about Klinefelter syndrome.
• Encourage your son's independence. Although it is important to be supportive, realize that watching over your son too much can send the message that you think he is not able to do things on his own.

Growth and development: Helping your child build self-esteem

If you suspect Klinefelter syndrome

Sexual development (such as growth of the penis, testicles, and facial hair) and muscle development are very important to teenage boys. A boy who is not developing like other boys his age may be afraid of being rejected and ridiculed by his peers. Early diagnosis and treatment for Klinefelter syndrome may prevent some of this. Talk to your doctor if your preteen or teenager is not developing like other boys his age, is behind in school or having behavior problems, or has unusually long legs compared with other family members. See a picture of a male with Klinefelter syndrome .