Can exposure to prenatal sex hormones (2D:4D) predict cognitive reflection?

Area of Science:

• Cognitive psychology
• Endocrinology
• Behavioral genetics

Background:

• The Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) measures the ability to inhibit intuitive, incorrect responses and engage in deliberate reasoning.
• Sex differences in CRT performance suggest a potential influence of prenatal sex hormones.
• The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is a widely studied marker for relative prenatal testosterone exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the predictive value of the 2D:4D ratio for CRT scores.
• To determine if 2D:4D can predict cognitive reflection abilities, independent of sex.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 623 students had their 2D:4D ratios measured.
• Participants completed the CRT.
• Statistical analyses controlled for sex, patience, and math proficiency.

Main Results:

• A lower 2D:4D ratio (higher relative prenatal testosterone) was significantly associated with higher CRT scores.
• This association was consistent across both the right and left hands.
• The effect of 2D:4D on CRT performance was stronger in females than in males.
• The relationship between 2D:4D and CRT scores remained significant after controlling for patience and math proficiency, suggesting no mediation by these factors.

Conclusions:

• The 2D:4D ratio serves as a significant predictor of cognitive reflection abilities.
• Prenatal androgen exposure, as indicated by 2D:4D, may influence the capacity for cognitive control and deliberate thinking.
• The findings highlight a potential biological basis for sex differences in cognitive reflection.