Mirror writing and handedness

Brain Lang. 2000 Jul;73(3):432-41. doi: 10.1006/brln.2000.2316.

Abstract

It has been reported that left-handed subjects are better able to write in mirror-reversed script than right-handers (Tankle & Heilman, 1983). Vaid and Stiles Davis (1989) conducted studies which led them to contradict the supposed superiority of left-handers in this area. In these studies, left as well as right-handed subjects were examined under normal- and mirror-writing conditions. Both examinations included the analysis of writing time and the accuracy of mirror writing (error rates). Using a digitizing tablet, we examined normal- and mirror-writing performance of left-handers, right-handers, and left-handed subjects who habitually write with their right hand. Our results support the finding of Tankle and Heilman (1983) that left-handers perform better in mirror-writing tasks.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Dominance, Cerebral / physiology*
  • Female
  • Functional Laterality / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Male