Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Handedness refers to the preference or dominance of using one hand over the other for various activities, such as writing or throwing. It is typically categorized into left-handedness and right-handedness.
Lateralization refers to the specialization and division of functions between the brain's hemispheres. In relation to handedness, it explains how certain tasks are controlled by specific sides of the brain.
Ambidexterity: Ambidexterity is the ability to use both hands equally well for various tasks. Unlike most people who have a dominant hand, ambidextrous individuals can perform tasks with either hand without any significant difference in skill.
Cross-dominance: Cross-dominance occurs when an individual has mixed preferences for different activities. For example, someone might write with their left hand but throw a ball with their right hand.