Examining the role of handedness in visual-spatial abilities

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of handedness in visual-spatial abilities, particularly, whether handedness and underlying brain asymmetries are useful variables in explaining individual differences in visual-spatial ability. A quantitative approach was adopted in this study. Participants’ visual-spatial abilities were assessed using the Visual Object and Space Perception Battery (VOSP; Warrington & James, 1991). Furthermore, participants’ degree of handedness was tested through The Briggs and Nebes (1975) modified version of the Annett Hand Preference Questionnaire (1967). The sample was recruited through the use of convenience sampling and consisted of adult participants of either gender, between the ages of 18-35. The participants were divided equally into groups of 30, left-handed and right-handed. The results indicated no relationship between type of handedness or degree of handedness and visual-spatial abilities. This study appears to indicate that handedness is not associated with visual-spatial abilities in a young and well-educated population, possibly meaning that within such a population other explanatory factors play a stronger role in shaping individual differences in visual-spatial abilities.