Dextrality

Dextrality refers to the natural tendency for an organism to favor one side of its body over the other for certain tasks, most commonly the use of the dominant hand for writing or other fine motor activities. This handedness is analogous to footedness, eyedness, and earedness, collectively known as lateralization. While the term dextrality specifically denotes right-handedness, it is often used more broadly to encompass any form of lateralized preference.

The prevalence of dextrality varies across species. In humans, approximately 90% of the population is right-handed, with a smaller percentage being left-handed (sinistrality) and an even smaller group exhibiting ambidexterity, the ability to use both hands with equal skill. The precise causes of dextrality are not fully understood, but research suggests a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. While certain genes have been linked to handedness, environmental influences during prenatal development and early childhood are also believed to play a significant role.

Lateralization, including dextrality, is thought to be a consequence of the brain's specialized organization. Different hemispheres of the brain tend to control different functions. For most right-handed individuals, the left hemisphere is dominant for language and fine motor control. However, the relationship between handedness and brain dominance is not absolute, and variations exist. Understanding dextrality contributes to our broader knowledge of brain function, development, and individual differences.