New study links dyslexia to mixed-handedness
A new article co-authored by Professor of Neurogenetics Silvia Paracchini has identified an association between dyslexia and “mixed-handedness.” In the context of the study, “mixed-handedness” refers to an umbrella term comprising both ambidexterity (no hand preference within a task) and inconsistent hand use (using different hands across different activities.) The authors were surprised to find a robust link between dyslexia and mixed-handedness rather than left-handedness in light of previous theories hypothesising the latter relationship.
The results stem from the researchers’ systematic review and meta-analyses of all available literature on dyslexia and handedness. The 68 studies identified featured data from more than 45,000 individuals, allowing for more reliable and precise findings on the potential relationship between the two variables.
Such studies contribute to a clearer understanding of potential differences between individuals with dyslexia and control participants. This in turn can facilitate crucial early diagnosis and intervention for children with this learning disability.
Read more about the study, published in Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews on 30 September, in the University’s press release