Laterality And Humanity: The Importance Of Laterality

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Laterality is referred to as the superiority of function of one side of the body in relation to the other side with regards to sensory reception and motor output (Fisher et al., 1991:176). When discussing laterality, it is important to discuss lateralization as the two terms are linked. Lateralization refers to the process whereby each hemisphere becomes specialized in a specific function. It is believed that well-established laterality is a good indicator of lateralization (hemisphere specialization) (Krans, 2006:161). Theoretically, specific patterns of thinking and behaviour are associated to each hemisphere. For example, in a right-handed person, the left hemisphere is more specialised in directing and controlling fine motor skills such as writing and cutting (Ayres, 2005:34). Language is also typically lateralized to the left-hemisphere in most right-handed individuals. The right-hemisphere, in contrast, is better at processing non-verbal language. Both hemispheres also play important roles in reading and mathematical ability (Murray, 1991:178-183). A particular function may be strongly lateralized to one hemisphere, meaning that that hemisphere predominantly controls that function; or it may be weakly lateralized, suggesting more of a shared hemispheric control (Fisher et al., 1991:176).

Lateral dominance or handedness refers to the consistent and more skilled use of the preferred hand, compared to the non-preferred hand, in functional and skilled tasks (Krans, 2006:161). Previous literature assessed laterality in terms of handedness, as well as eye and foot preference and it was assumed that eye, hand and foot preference should all be consistent. However, recent research suggests that the correlation between handedness an...

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..., hands and feet, as well as poorly coordinated bilateral asymmetric movements (Van Jaarsveld, 2011:10). As discussed above, Kianah struggled more when performing bilateral movements of TFT and DDK compared to the unilateral movements (refer to Proprioceptive System). She also relied on her vision to assist her in planning and sequencing each repetition. Functionally, when bouncing a 43 cm ball repetitively with both hands (score of 3), Kianah struggled to coordinate her two hands together and her left and right hand did not move symmetrically. She only managed to bounce the ball four times before losing control of it. She performed better when bouncing the ball with one hand and alternating hands; however, she still only scored a four as she did not have good control of the ball. Her teacher also reports that she struggles with rhythmical clapping games in class.

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