Asymmetry in Resting Alpha Activity: Effects of Handedness

Ruth E. Propper, Jenna Pierce, Mark W. Geisler, Stephen D. Christman, Nathan Bellorado

Psychology Department, Merrimack College, North Andover, USA.
Psychology Department, Montclair State University, Montclair, USA.
Psychology Department, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, USA.
Psychology Department, University of Toledo, Toledo, USA.

DOI: 10.4236/ojmp.2012.14014                

Abstract

Study Aim: Frontal electroencephalographic (EEG) alpha band power during rest shows increased right, and/or de-creased left, hemisphere activity under conditions of state or trait withdrawal-associated affect. Non-right-handers (NRH) are more likely to have mental illnesses and dispositions that involve such withdrawal-related affect. The aim of the study was to examine whether NRH might be characterized by increased right, relative to left, hemisphere activity during rest. Methods: The present research investigated that hypothesis by examining resting EEG alpha power in consistently-right-handed (CRH) and NRH individuals. Results: In support of the hypothesis, NRH demonstrated de-creased right hemisphere alpha power, and therefore increased right hemisphere activity, during rest, compared to CRH. Conclusions: The study demonstrates further support for an association between increased right hemisphere activity and negative affect via an association between such EEG activity and NRH.

Keywords

EEG; Handedness; Asymmetry; Emotion

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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