Chapter 18 Laterality and Longevity: Is Left-Handedness Associated with a Younger Age at Death?

摘要: Publisher Summary The argument that sinistrality is associated with reduced longevity comes from a series of life-span and population surveys handedness. Such studies have produced the surprising result regardless index used to measure handedness, increasing age, number lefthanders diminishes markedly. Several genetic models been proposed explain as an inherited trait. Simple single gene theories in which viewed recessive trait transmitted much like blue eyes or blonde hair cannot account for fact majority children two left-handed parents are right-handed. A more complex two-gene model was by Levy Nagylaki. According these authors, laterality determined joint action genes—one determines cerebral hemisphere dominant speech other whether motor control will be contralateral ipsilateral hemisphere. third known “right shift” theory Annett. Annett has hypothesized normal development language left right-side genetically programmed. When this genotype absent, right dominance equally likely. describe phenomenon, psychologists typically look environmental explanations such pressures imposed on young use one hand other.