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Sex and ethnic differences in 2nd to 4th digit ratio of children

J T Manning1, A Stewart, P E Bundred

  • 1Department of Psychology, The University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK. jtmanning@uclan.ac.uk

Early Human Development
|October 27, 2004
PubMed

Insights

The 2D:4D finger ratio in children shows significant sex and ethnic differences, with males generally having lower ratios. These differences appear early in development and are consistent across various ethnic groups, including Caucasian, Oriental, and Black children.

Area of Science:

  • Human biology
  • Developmental biology
  • Anthropometry

Background:

  • The 2D:4D ratio (second to fourth digit length) varies between sexes and ethnicities, with potential links to prenatal hormone exposure.
  • Previous research indicates sex differences in 2D:4D, with males typically exhibiting lower ratios.
  • Limited data exists on sex and ethnic variations in children's 2D:4D ratios.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine sex and ethnic variations in the 2D:4D ratio among children.
  • To investigate differences in Caucasian, Oriental, and Black children's finger ratios.

Main Methods:

  • A population survey was conducted involving children from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
  • The 2D:4D ratio was measured from photocopies of the right hand.
  • Participants included Berber children (Morocco), Uygur and Han children (China), and Jamaican children.

Main Results:

  • A total of 798 children participated.
  • Lower 2D:4D ratios were observed in males compared to females across the overall sample and specific ethnic groups (Uygur, Han, Jamaican).
  • Significant ethnic variations in 2D:4D were found, with the lowest ratios in Afro-Caribbean Jamaicans and the highest in Oriental Han children. Sex and ethnic differences were independent.

Conclusions:

  • Children's 2D:4D ratios exhibit sex and ethnic differences, mirroring adult patterns.
  • Low 2D:4D ratios were noted in a Black ethnic group.
  • The findings suggest that sex and ethnic differences in 2D:4D emerge early in development and remain stable throughout childhood growth.
Abstract

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