Brain Lateralization

Brain lateralization refers to the degree to which the brain is divided into right and left halves, each of which has specific anatomical structures and, in turn, functions. Since the 1800s, scientists have studied how the two halves, or cerebral hemispheres, of the brain are different from one another, as well as how they work together to carry out tasks. While individuals’ brains have the same contents and organization overall, each person’s exact brain lateralization is unique. Sex and sexual orientation have been shown to be factors affecting lateralization. This entry discusses the mechanics of brain lateralization, including hemispheric asymmetry and connectivity, and details how sex, gender, and sexual orientation may affect brain lateralization.

Hemispheric Asymmetry

The right and left hemispheres are divided by the medial ...

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