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Childrens' left-turning preference is not modulated by magical ideation
Jürg C Streuli1,2,3, Gina Obrist1, Peter Brugger1
1a Department of Neurology, Neuropsychology Unit , University Hospital Zürich , Zürich , Switzerland.
Children aged 3-5 years show a consistent left-turning preference. This finding contrasts with recent adult studies, suggesting potential developmental changes in turning behavior or differences in study methodologies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Human Behavior
Background:
- Human turning preferences literature presents conflicting findings.
- Previous research indicates a left-turning tendency in young children, but a right-sided bias in adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate spontaneous turning behavior in young children (3-5 years).
- To explore potential associations between turning preference and magical thinking in this age group.
Main Methods:
- Observational study of spontaneous whole-body rotation in children.
- Inclusion of a single question to assess belief in extrasensory communication.
Main Results:
- A clear left-turning (counterclockwise) preference was observed in children.
- Turning preference was independent of the child's sex and handedness.
- Belief in extrasensory communication did not correlate with turning bias or lateral preference.
Conclusions:
- Results align with previous findings of a left-turning preference in children.
- Findings contradict recent adult studies, raising questions about maturational gradients or methodological differences.
- The association between body turns and magical thinking requires further investigation with more robust measures.
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