Laterality and crossed laterality are fundamental concepts in psychology and neuroscience that refer to the preference or dominance of one side of the body over the other, both in terms of motor and cognitive skills. Laterality refers to the preference to use one or the other side of the body predominantly, while crossed laterality implies the dominance of one side of the body over the other in specific functions, such as using the left hand to write while being skilled in other activities.
Origin and development of laterality
Laterality is a complex process that develops throughout childhood and adolescence, influenced by genetic, environmental and neurobiological factors. From an early age, human beings show a tendency to prefer one side of the body over the other, which can be observed in everyday actions such as picking up objects, using utensils, kicking a ball or writing.
This development of Laterality is closely linked to brain functioning and the organization of motor and cognitive skills. The human brain is divided into two hemispheres, the left and the right, which control specific functions of the body and thought. In most individuals, the left hemisphere controls the right side of the body, while the right hemisphere controls the left side of the body, known as cerebral lateralization.
Factors that influence laterality
Laterality can be influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental and social factors. Studies have shown that laterality tends to be hereditary, that is, that lateral preferences can be transmitted from parents to children. Additionally, the environment in which a person develops can also influence the consolidation of laterality, especially during childhood.
Learning and practicing specific motor and cognitive skills can also influence development. of laterality. For example, regularly practicing activities that require the use of a particular hand can strengthen the lateral preference for that side of the body.
Cross laterality: definition and characteristics
Laterality Crossover is a phenomenon in which a person shows different lateral dominance in different functions or activities. For example, a right-handed person who uses their left hand to write or a left-handed person who kicks a ball with their right foot would be showing signs of crossed laterality.
This phenomenon can be the result of a series of factors, such as the influence of the environment, genetics or even brain injuries. Cross-laterality can manifest itself in a variety of ways, not only in terms of hand use, but also in the preference for one ear, eye, or foot over the other.
Possible implications of cross-laterality
Cross-laterality can have important implications for a person's development and cognitive functioning. By showing opposite lateral preferences in different functions, the brain may be subject to a process of constant integration and adaptation, which could affect efficiency in carrying out tasks that require coordination between both hemispheres.
Some studies suggest that people with crossed laterality may have greater cognitive abilities, such as creativity or problem solving, due to the stimulation and connection between the cerebral hemispheres that this phenomenon may imply. However, it has also been proposed that crossed laterality could be associated with certain challenges in information processing and motor coordination.
Phenomena related to laterality
In addition to laterality and crossed laterality, there are other phenomena related to lateral preference in humans. For example, ocular dominance refers to the preference for using one eye over the other in situations that require greater visual acuity, such as aiming a laser or looking through a telescope.
Another related phenomenon is foot dominance, which refers to the preference for using one foot over the other in activities that require motor coordination, such as kicking a ball or maintaining balance. These aspects of laterality can influence the way a person performs in various physical and cognitive activities.
Importance of understanding laterality in the educational and clinical setting
Understanding the laterality and crossed laterality is essential in educational and clinical contexts, since it can influence the development of motor, cognitive and emotional skills of individuals. In the educational setting, identifying and respecting students' lateral preferences can contribute to more effective learning and improved performance on specific tasks.
In the clinical setting, laterality and cross-laterality can be considered in the evaluation and treatment of developmental disorders, such as sensory processing disorder or autism spectrum disorder. Identifying patterns of crossed laterality in these cases can help design more personalized and effective interventions to address the needs of each individual.
Conclusions
In summary, laterality and crossed laterality are key concepts in psychology and neuroscience that reflect the preference and dominance of one side or the other of the body in motor and cognitive functions. These phenomena are the result of a complex interaction between genetic, environmental and neurobiological factors, which influence the development and brain functioning of individuals.
Understanding laterality and crossed laterality is important to identify patterns of lateral preference in human beings, which can have significant implications in the educational, clinical field and also in the personal development of each individual. Exploring these concepts allows us to delve deeper into the diversity and complexity of the human mind and the way it manifests itself through our daily actions.