Handedness
A) reflects the greater capacity of one side of the brain to carry out skilled motor action.
B) is evident in a wide range of skills from birth.
C) is a heritable trait, especially for left-handed people.
D) is strongest for simple, rather than complex, skills.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Handedness reflects the greater capacity of one side of the brain, typically the left hemisphere, to carry out skilled motor action. This is supported by research looking at brain activation during motor tasks.

Answer: B 
 Handedness may be evident in a wide range of skills from birth, such as reaching and grasping. However, some individuals may show a preference for one hand over the other later in development.

Answer: C 
 Handedness is thought to have a heritable component, especially for left-handed individuals. Twin studies have shown that genetics can influence handedness, though the exact genes involved are not fully understood.

Answer: D 
 Handedness does not appear to be strongest for simple skills only. Many complex skills, such as playing a musical instrument or typing on a keyboard, may also show a handedness preference.