Hand use, preference and proficiency : a cross-cultural comparison of Kwakiutl and Caucasian samples
Date
1983
Authors
Marrion, Virginia Leslie
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Abstract
A cross-cultural comparison between 180 Kwakiutl and 180 Caucasians, matched for age, gender and geographic location, revealed significant differences in the distributions and proportions of handedness behavior as measured by hand use and preference questionnaires and a proficiency task. The Kwakiutl consistently demonstrated less right-handedness and a greater degree of ambi-handedness on all measures. Both groups performed equally well with their left hands on the Hand Proficiency task but the Caucasians were better with their right hands. The difference score (R - L) on this task was significantly smaller for the Kwakiutl, indicating that the Caucasian sample baa greater proficiency of the right hand. Age by culture effects (age 4 to 6, 10 to 12, adult) were examined to investigate environmental pressure or differing developmental patterns across cultures. The Kwakiutl pattern over age was an inverted U. Lesser degrees of right-handedness were seen in the ages 4 to 6 and adult groups, but a large increase occurred during the school years of age 10 to 12. The Caucasian pattern was J shaped, indicating an increase in right hand use with increasing age. These results support predictions from a number of theoretical orientations that suggest that cross-cultural differences in handedness behavior may arise from genetic, environmental or developmental differences.