Who Determines a Child’s Gender and Inherited Traits?
A child’s gender is determined exclusively by the father. The mother always contributes an X chromosome, while the father provides either an X or a Y chromosome. If the Y chromosome is inherited, the child develops as a boy; if an X chromosome is inherited, the child develops as a girl. This basic genetic mechanism explains why biological sex depends on paternal genetic input.
Intellectual Abilities
Many genes associated with intellectual functions are located on the X chromosome. Because boys have only one X chromosome, they inherit these traits primarily from their mother. However, it is important not to overestimate the role of genetics in intelligence. Scientific research shows that children inherit less than 50% of their intellectual potential from their parents. Education, upbringing, environment, and personal motivation play a decisive role in shaping cognitive abilities over time.
Inherited Genetic Disorders
Some hereditary conditions are transmitted through the maternal line via the X chromosome. Examples include hemophilia and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This occurs because a mother may carry a defective gene on one X chromosome while remaining healthy due to the presence of a second, normal X chromosome. If such a gene is passed to a son, who has only one X chromosome, the disease may manifest.
Height and Body Weight
Although tall parents are more likely to have taller children, height and body weight are influenced by the combined genetic contribution of both parents. Body weight is often more strongly associated with maternal genetics; for example, mothers with a normal or lean body composition are more likely to pass similar traits to their children. Nevertheless, genetic predispositions can be significantly influenced by environmental factors such as nutrition, physical activity, and overall lifestyle.
