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[Medical problems of handedness]
1Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Klinik, Städtisches Klinikum Görlitz, Moltkestrasse 52, D-02826 Görlitz, Deutschland. reiss@klinikum-goerlitz.de
Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|May 10, 2002
Summary
Left-handedness, present in about 8% of humans, is a common form of behavioral lateralization. Despite theories linking it to brain damage, evidence does not support left-handedness being a pathological sign.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Human Biology
- Behavioral Science
Context:
- Behavioral lateralization is a key aspect of human neurobiology.
- Handedness, specifically left-handedness, is a persistent trait in human populations.
- Understanding handedness offers insights into brain organization.
Purpose:
- To review the practical relevance and challenges associated with left-handedness.
- To explore theories on the origin of human laterality, including pathological explanations.
- To evaluate the evidence for left-handedness as a pathological indicator.
Summary:
- Left-handedness affects approximately 8% of the human population and shows consistent incidence across cultures.
- While some theories propose sinistrality arises from perinatal brain damage, this review finds no conclusive evidence.
- A disproportionate number of left-handed individuals are observed in clinical populations, but this does not confirm pathology.
Impact:
- This review clarifies that left-handedness is not inherently pathological, challenging previous assumptions.
- It provides a balanced perspective on the origins and implications of sinistrality.
- Findings contribute to a better understanding of brain organization and behavioral diversity.