Sex Differences in Handedness, Brain Asymmetry, and Language Lateralization

Abstract

This chapter offers an updated review and meta-analysis of existing research on sex differences, coupled with a thorough discussion of a possible underlying mechanism in a more bilateral brain in females. It specifically discusses the current literature on sex differences in language lateralization as reflected in handedness, asymmetry of the planum temporale, and functional language lateralization. The chapter shows that cultural (or possibly racial) differences are a moderator of the sex difference in handedness. There is no sex difference in language lateralization. It is suggested that females who are innately left or mixed handed more frequently switch to right-hand use for social activities such as writing and eating than do left or mixed-handed males.