Investigating the correlation between 2D:4D finger digit ratios and attention gathering skills of 60–72 month-old children

Abstract

BackgroundDigit ratio 2D:4D is used to follow children's development process and examine behaviours and abilities. AimThe aim of this study is to determine the correlation between the 2D:4D digit ratios of 60–72 month-old children and their attention gathering skills, as well as whether the 2D:4D digit ratio and attention gathering skills of children differ based on independent variables. MethodThe sample of the study, designed in the correlational survey model, consisted of a total of 112 children aged 60–72 months who were attending preschool education in Malatya province in Turkey. The data were analysed using SPSS packaged software. ResultsIt was determined that there was a positive low significant correlation between attention gathering skills and the right hand 2D:4D digit ratio in 60–72 month-old children. In addition to, no significant difference was found between the children's FTF-K scores and the right hand 2D:4D digit ratio in terms of the variable of mother's status of exercising, but there was a significant difference between their FTF-K scores and the left hand 2D:4D digit ratio in terms of the variable of the mother's status of exercising. ConclusionsThe findings of the study demonstrate the importance of the study for revealing clues about children's attention gathering/concentration levels from their early periods, and promoting their attention gathering skills and generally their cognitive development.