Which of the following statements is true regarding lateralization?
a. people who are artistic or creative use more of their left-brain.
b. language ability has different roles in each hemisphere.
c. the right side of the brain has more control of the body than the left.
d. the left side of the brain controls the left side of the body.
The correct answer and explanation is:
iturn0image1turn0image2turn0image3turn0image5The correct answer is b. language ability has different roles in each hemisphere.
Explanation:
Brain lateralization refers to the specialization of certain cognitive functions in either the left or right hemisphere of the brain. This division of labor allows for more efficient processing of tasks. Let’s examine each statement:
a. People who are artistic or creative use more of their left-brain.
This statement is incorrect. The popular notion that the left hemisphere is logical and analytical while the right hemisphere is creative and artistic is an oversimplification. In reality, both hemispheres are involved in nearly all cognitive tasks, and creativity arises from the integrated functioning of the entire brain. Studies have shown that while certain functions may be lateralized, complex activities like creativity require the collaboration of both hemispheres. citeturn0search9
b. Language ability has different roles in each hemisphere.
This statement is correct. Language processing is one of the most well-documented examples of lateralization. In most individuals, particularly right-handed ones, the left hemisphere is dominant for language functions such as grammar, vocabulary, and literal meaning. Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area, critical for speech production and comprehension respectively, are typically located in the left hemisphere. However, the right hemisphere contributes to language through the interpretation of prosody, intonation, and the emotional aspects of communication. citeturn0search9
c. The right side of the brain has more control of the body than the left.
This statement is incorrect. Each hemisphere of the brain primarily controls the opposite side of the body. The left hemisphere controls the right side of the body, and the right hemisphere controls the left side. This contralateral control means that neither hemisphere exerts more control over the body than the other; instead, they each dominate the opposite side. citeturn0search11
d. The left side of the brain controls the left side of the body.
This statement is incorrect. As mentioned above, the brain operates on a contralateral basis: the left hemisphere controls the right side of the body, and the right hemisphere controls the left side. Therefore, the left side of the brain does not control the left side of the body. citeturn0search11
Understanding brain lateralization provides insight into how specialized functions are organized within the brain. While certain tasks may be more dominant in one hemisphere, effective cognitive processing relies on the integrated activity of both hemispheres working in concert.