Brain Asymmetry and Psychological Processes

The asymmetry of the brain could explain why people are right or left-handed. However, according to an article published in the journal, PNAS, there seems to be a genetic trigger. It seems that, while being left-handed is associated with differences in brain asymmetry, the same happens in some regions linked to language, manual control, vision, and working memory.

While in right-handers, the left hemisphere controls the dominant right hand, in left-handers, it’s the opposite.

Cerebral asymmetry is a fundamental characteristic of the organization of the nervous system. It can create anatomical variations and alter the functioning of multiple neurological processes. Therefore, it’s not surprising that this biological peculiarity triggers a number of mental health problems.

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• ASD (autism spectrum disorder). Sufferers exhibit altered lateralized neurodevelopment. However, scientists highlight the need to carry out further research and reviews to reach clearer conclusions
• Theres a link between major depression and brain asymmetry. It claims there’s less activity in the left hemisphere and hyperactivity in the right frontal area
• A study claims patients with schizophrenia present greater asymmetry in their gray matter . This anomaly appears during a child’s neurodevelopment

Curiously, the asymmetry of the brain makes us have a greater tendency to chew on one side and not the other. A study conducted by the University of Barcelona (Spain) states that this preference is the effect of lateralization and particularities in the neurological anatomy between the hemispheres.

Predilections have been found in the use of sensory organs such as the eyes , with the right being the preferred one in most cases. If you want to know what your preference is, try looking through a lock. Which eye do you automatically use?

We should clarify that creative thinking requires using a good part of both hemispheres. This cognitive process demands high doses of intuition and imagination, combined with logical analysis, reasoning, reading, and language.

The researchers discovered that the most creative people exhibit brain asymmetry linked to the functionality of dopamine. In fact, these individuals receive a lower level of this neurotransmitter in their right hemisphere. This allows them to combine remote and original concepts to shape innovative and effective ideas.